Can a Landlord Raise Rent During a Lease in Illinois?

Rent increases are stressful for many Illinois renters, especially if you’re in the middle of a signed lease. It’s important to know your rights and what Illinois law says about when and how a landlord can change your rent. Here, we explain when rent increases are legal in Illinois and what steps you can take if you get a notice.

Understanding Lease Agreements vs. Month-to-Month Rentals

In Illinois, rental agreements generally fall into two categories: fixed-term leases (such as a year-long lease) and month-to-month tenancies. Your legal rights about rent increases depend on your type of agreement.

• Fixed-term lease: A written commitment (like 12 months) where the rent amount is locked in for the lease term.
• Month-to-month tenancy: Renews each month, with more flexibility for both renters and landlords.

Can a Landlord Raise Rent in the Middle of a Lease?

In Illinois, a landlord cannot raise your rent in the middle of a fixed-term lease unless your lease agreement specifically allows for it. The agreed-upon rent is legally binding for the full term. Any attempt by a landlord to increase the rent mid-lease—without an explicit clause or proper addendum—violates the lease and Illinois law. For more on your rights, see the Illinois Residential Tenants’ Right to Repair Act and relevant sections of the Illinois Compiled Statutes: Security Deposit Return Act.¹

Exceptions: When Is a Mid-Lease Rent Increase Allowed?

• If your lease has a clear clause allowing for rent adjustments under specific conditions.
• If both you and your landlord agree in writing to modify the lease (an official lease addendum must be signed).

Otherwise, your rent remains stable for the life of the lease. For month-to-month renters, Illinois law allows landlords to change the rent, but they must provide you with written notice at least 30 days before the rent increase takes effect.²

What to Do if You Receive a Rent Increase Notice Mid-Lease

If your landlord tries to raise your rent before your lease expires, you have legal protections. Here are steps you can take:

• Check your lease agreement—look for any clauses about rent changes.
• Document the communication—keep all written notices or emails.
• Reply professionally—state your lease terms and ask your landlord to respect the rental agreement.
• If unresolved, you may contact your local housing court or a tenant advocacy group for support.

Relevant Forms and Where to Get Help

• Lease Addendum (No State Form Number)
  This is a written agreement that amends your lease. Only use a lease addendum if you and your landlord agree in writing to a rent change. For guidance and a sample, see the City of Chicago Lease Addendum Sample.
• Complaint/Filing in Housing Court
  If a landlord tries to enforce an illegal rent increase, you may file a complaint in the appropriate division of the local circuit court (such as the Cook County Housing Court for Chicago and Cook County residents). You can find the relevant forms and instructions on the court's website.

Who Handles Residential Tenancy Disputes in Illinois?

Residential tenancy legal matters are managed by the Illinois Circuit Courts, with specialized housing courts in larger counties like Cook. For Chicago renters, key protections also fall under the Chicago Department of Housing and the Chicago Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance (RLTO).

Key Legislation for Illinois Renters

• Illinois Residential Tenants’ Right to Repair Act
• Illinois Compiled Statutes: Security Deposit Return Act
• Chicago RLTO (if you rent within City of Chicago)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord increase my rent during my lease term in Illinois?
   Generally, no. Rent cannot be raised mid-lease unless your lease allows it or you sign a written agreement.
2. What if I am renting month-to-month in Illinois?
   Your landlord can raise the rent but must give you at least 30 days’ written notice before any increase.
3. What should I do if I get a mid-lease rent increase notice?
   Check your lease, document communications, and seek help from legal aid or your local housing court if needed.
4. Does Chicago have different rental rules?
   Yes. Chicago’s Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance (RLTO) offers additional protections. Check the latest provisions on the official city website.
5. Where can I get the right forms to dispute a rent increase?
   Use your local Circuit Court’s housing division resources, such as Cook County Housing Court for Chicago-area renters.

Key Takeaways for Illinois Renters

• Rent cannot be increased during a fixed-term lease unless clearly allowed in the lease itself or you agree and sign a lease addendum.
• Month-to-month renters must get at least 30 days’ written notice of any rent increase.
• Use your lease and local court or tenant resources to protect your rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Illinois Courts: Find Your Local Circuit Court
• Chicago Legal Clinic: Tenant Rights Support
• Illinois Legal Aid Online: Renter Information
• Cook County Rental Housing Court
• Chicago Department of Housing: Renter Resources

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1. See Illinois Residential Tenants’ Right to Repair Act and Illinois Compiled Statutes
2. For month-to-month requirements: Illinois Compiled Statutes

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