Chicago
No rent control (Illinois preempts it) - but the RLTO gives Chicago renters unusual leverage on deposits and repairs
01
The RLTO
Chicago's Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance covers most rentals and must be summarized and attached to your lease. It's the source of most Chicago-specific rights.
02
Security deposit teeth
The RLTO's deposit rules (receipts, interest, strict return handling) carry penalties of up to twice the deposit for violations - among the strongest deposit remedies anywhere.
03
Late fees capped
The RLTO caps late fees using a small flat amount plus a percentage of rent above a threshold - most 'flat $100' late fees in Chicago leases are illegal.
Educational information, not legal advice - figures are general and laws change. How we keep this accurate & where to verify → · Spot an error? Tell us →
Illinois law still applies.
City rules sit on top of state law. Deposits, entry notice and the eviction process still come from Illinois.