Adding a Roommate to a Lease in Illinois: Steps & Legal Tips

Many Illinois renters share housing to save on costs. If you want to formally add a roommate to your lease, there are legal steps to follow for your protection and to comply with state law. This guide explains how to add a new roommate, your legal obligations, and what to do if your landlord has concerns.

Can You Add a Roommate to a Lease in Illinois?

Most rental leases in Illinois do not allow you to bring in a new roommate without your landlord's permission. Leases typically specify who is allowed to live in the unit. Adding a roommate without approval may violate your lease and risk eviction.

• Always review your lease for clauses about occupancy limits or adding additional residents.
• Your landlord generally has the right to approve or reject an additional occupant, as long as they follow Illinois law and do not discriminate.

If you’re in Chicago, check if your building has local ordinances that limit or define occupancy or subletting rights.

Step-by-Step: How to Add a Roommate Legally

Follow these steps to make sure your new roommate is legally protected and that you comply with Illinois rental laws.

1. Talk to Your Landlord First

• Request written permission to add a roommate. Some landlords have a specific process or approval application.
• Communicate early, explaining who will be moving in and when.

2. Complete a Roommate Application

• Your landlord may require a rental application (often the same as Illinois Residential Landlord and Tenant Act screening) for the new roommate. This usually includes a background check.

3. Sign an Addendum or New Lease

• The landlord may use a lease addendum to officially add the roommate as a "tenant" or "permitted occupant."
• If the landlord wants a fresh start, you might all sign a new lease including both names and legal responsibilities.
• Ask for an official Lease Addendum Form. Some property managers provide an addendum template; others expect you to agree in writing.

Relevant Official Forms

• Lease Addendum Form (No Official State Form Number): Used to add a new tenant or roommate to an existing lease. This form amends the original lease agreement to include the new roommate's name and obligations. Request this form from your landlord or property manager. For a sample, see Chicago Lease Addendum (Sample) (Chicago Residents).
• Rental Application: For screening a new roommate. Many landlords use their own version. See Illinois Rental Application FAQ for general info.

What Happens After Adding a Roommate?

Once officially added, your new roommate has legal responsibilities for rent and other lease obligations. Both tenants are generally "jointly and severally" liable (each can be held responsible for the full rent or lease terms).

Illinois Laws and Where to Get Help

The Illinois Residential Landlord and Tenant Act outlines tenant and landlord rights statewide. For Chicago, additional rules and protections are covered by the Chicago Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance (RLTO).

• Discrimination is illegal: Landlords cannot deny new tenants because of race, religion, national origin, gender, disability, or other protected categories (Illinois Department of Human Rights).
• If your landlord unreasonably refuses a reasonable request, you can contact your local housing department or file a complaint with an Illinois fair housing office.

The main tribunal for resolving rental disputes in Illinois is your local county court eviction or housing court. For Chicago renters, the city’s Department of Housing provides tenant help and information.

FAQ: Adding a Roommate to a Lease in Illinois

1. Do I always need landlord approval to add a roommate?
   Yes, in most cases. Check your lease, but Illinois law generally requires written permission from the landlord to avoid breaking your contract.
2. What happens if I add a roommate without permission?
   You may violate your lease and risk eviction. If discovered, the landlord can require you to remove the new occupant or terminate the lease.
3. Can my landlord increase my rent if I add a roommate?
   Illinois law does not prohibit rent increases when adding a roommate, but any increase must comply with your city’s local rent rules and proper written notice.
4. Is my new roommate equally responsible for rent?
   Once on the lease, your roommate is equally (jointly and severally) responsible for rent and lease compliance unless otherwise specified.
5. Where can I get help if my landlord is being unreasonable?
   Contact your local housing authority, Illinois Department of Human Rights, or a qualified tenant support service (see resources below).

Key Takeaways

• Always request landlord approval before adding a roommate in Illinois.
• Ask for a lease addendum or updated lease to make things official for all parties.
• Keep all documentation and know your rights under Illinois law and local ordinances.

Careful planning and open communication help protect you and your new roommate under Illinois law.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Read the Illinois Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
• Chicago Department of Housing – Renter Resources
• Illinois Department of Human Rights – File a Housing Complaint
• Cook County Eviction/Housing Court
• Illinois Legal Aid – Tenant Support

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1. See Illinois Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (765 ILCS 705)
2. Chicago tenants: Chicago RLTO
3. Learn about discrimination protections via the Illinois Department of Human Rights
4. Sample addendum form: Chicago Lease Addendum (Sample PDF)
5. Cook County eviction or housing court info: Cook County Housing Court

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