Illinois Bedbug Disclosure Rules for Apartment Renters

Moving into an apartment in Illinois? Understanding bedbug disclosure laws helps protect your health and peace of mind. Illinois requires landlords to follow strict rules when it comes to disclosing bedbug issues in apartment buildings, especially in cities like Chicago. This guide explains what renters can expect, which forms apply, and what to do if you suspect a problem.

Understanding Bedbug Disclosure Requirements in Illinois

Bedbugs are a serious concern in apartment living. In Illinois, both state and local laws may require landlords to take certain actions if bedbugs have been reported or found in a unit or building.

• Disclosure: In cities like Chicago, landlords must provide written information about bedbug infestation and prevention to all tenants when they sign a lease.
• Inspection: If there is an infestation, landlords are responsible for prompt inspection and treatment.
• Notification: Renters must receive written notice if bedbugs are found in their unit or a neighboring unit.

Chicago Bed Bug Ordinance – Special Local Requirement

In Chicago, the Chicago Bed Bug Ordinance (Municipal Code of Chicago § 7-28-810) sets extra rules:

• Landlords must provide a written brochure on bedbug prevention and detection at leasing, renewal, or transfer.
• Required to respond to reported infestations within 10 days.
• Must arrange for inspection and, if needed, professional pest control treatment.

Other municipalities in Illinois may have their own rules, but Chicago's are the strongest statewide.

Your Rights and Responsibilities as a Renter

Renters also have important responsibilities. If you suspect bedbugs, you must notify your landlord in writing as soon as possible. Illinois law requires cooperation with inspections and treatments so that the pest problem can be addressed quickly.

Statewide Law: Illinois Bed Bug Inspection and Disclosure

According to the Illinois Premises Liability Act and the Illinois Safe and Hygienic Housing Act, landlords must keep rental units safe and habitable, which includes eradicating bedbug infestations.

• Habitability Responsibility: Landlords must ensure apartments are free of infestations when rented.
• Notice: Written notice about any discovered bedbug infestation must be provided to tenants.
• No retaliation: Tenants who report bedbugs are protected from landlord retaliation under the law.

Required Forms and How They Are Used

Form: Chicago Bed Bug Disclosure and Prevention Brochure (no official state-issued form number)
When you rent or renew an apartment lease in Chicago, your landlord must provide you with the official bed bug information brochure (click here for the official brochure PDF). This form includes tips for prevention, your legal rights, and your duties as a tenant.

• When is it used? At lease signing, renewal, or transfer for any apartment in Chicago.
• How is it used? The landlord should give you a hard copy or digital version. Keep it as proof you received the information.

If you report a bedbug infestation, some local housing agencies may also require you to submit a tenant complaint form. Check with your city or township housing office.

Where to File a Complaint

If your landlord fails to disclose or treat an infestation, you can contact the Illinois Department of Public Health or, for Chicago residents, the City of Chicago’s 311 Service.

All unresolved disputes about habitability, including pest issues, may be brought to the court system under the Illinois Circuit Court in your county.

The Official Tribunal for Tenancy Issues

Residential tenancy disputes in Illinois are handled by the Illinois Circuit Court. They oversee issues about habitability, landlord-tenant disputes, and compliance with state and local housing laws.

FAQ: Illinois Bedbug Disclosure for Renters

1. Do Illinois landlords have to tell new tenants about previous bedbug infestations? – In Chicago, yes. Landlords must provide written information and notify you if bedbugs were discovered. Outside Chicago, notice is required if an infestation affects habitability. Check your city’s rules.
2. What should I do if I find bedbugs after moving in? – Notify your landlord in writing immediately. Include photos if possible. Cooperate with inspections and treatment. If your landlord does not respond, contact your local health department or the Illinois Circuit Court.
3. Can a landlord evict me for reporting a bedbug problem? – No. It is illegal for landlords to retaliate against tenants who honestly report habitability issues, including bedbugs.
4. Is there a standard statewide bedbug disclosure form? – No. Chicago has its own brochure, but Illinois does not provide a single statewide form. Always keep all documents provided by your landlord.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Illinois Department of Public Health – Regional Contacts
• City of Chicago Bed Bug Information and Reporting
• Illinois Circuit Court (Residential Tenancy Disputes)
• Illinois Premises Liability Act
• Illinois Safe and Hygienic Housing Act

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1. Illinois Premises Liability Act
2. Illinois Safe and Hygienic Housing Act
3. Chicago Bed Bug Ordinance and Brochure
4. Illinois Circuit Court

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