Illinois Landlord Disclosures Before Move-In: Renter Guide

Before you move into a new rental home in Illinois, it’s important to know what disclosures your landlord is legally required to provide. These disclosures protect your health, finances, and ensure your rental starts off on the right foot. Illinois law outlines several key disclosures landlords must give before you sign a lease or pay your deposit. Here’s what Illinois renters need to look for and what each disclosure covers.

What Disclosures Must Illinois Landlords Provide Before Move-In?

Illinois law requires landlords to share information that affects the safety, health, or legal responsibilities of renters. The most important required disclosures include:

• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (for homes built before 1978)
• Radon Disclosure (for most dwellings below the third floor)
• Names and Addresses Disclosure for managing agents and property owner
• Security Deposit Procedures (for buildings with 5+ units)
• Notice of Code Violations or Pending Court Actions (if applicable)

Each disclosure serves a unique purpose and must be delivered following state rules. We’ll explain each one, show what form to expect, and how to make sure you receive it.

Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (Federal and State Law)

If you’re renting a unit built before 1978, landlords must provide:

• The official Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form (form name: Disclosure of Information on Lead-Based Paint and/or Lead-Based Paint Hazards)
• The EPA’s pamphlet "Protect Your Family From Lead In Your Home"

When and how it’s used: The landlord gives you these forms before you sign the lease or pay a deposit. For example, if you tour a 1950s apartment, request the disclosure before committing.

Radon Disclosure (Illinois Radon Awareness Act)

Landlords must give a written Radon Disclosure Form for most rental units located below the third floor. This form summarizes any known radon hazards and includes the Illinois Emergency Management Agency’s brochure titled, Radon: A Guide for Tenants.

Example: Your unit is on the second floor. Your landlord gives you the official Radon Disclosure and brochure before move-in. You review, sign, and keep a copy.

Names and Addresses Disclosure

Required by the Illinois Security Deposit Return Act and local ordinances, your lease (or a separate written notice) must state who manages the property and the owner’s or agent’s address for legal notices. Always check your lease for these details.

Security Deposit Details (Chicago and Statewide Requirements)

If your building has five or more units, Illinois’ Security Deposit Return Act requires the lease or a separate notice listing:

• Where and how your security deposit will be held
• Whether it will earn interest (especially in Chicago or Evanston; see the Chicago Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance)

Tip: If you don’t receive this information, ask your landlord directly. Keep copies of all documents provided at signing.

Notice of Code Violations or Pending Legal Issues

Some Illinois cities (like Chicago) require landlords to notify renters of uncorrected code violations or housing court cases affecting the unit or common areas. This helps renters make informed decisions before moving in.

What Happens If a Landlord Doesn’t Provide Disclosures?

If required disclosures aren’t given, renters may have legal remedies such as:

• Cancelling the lease before move-in
• Filing a complaint with city or state authorities
• Potential legal damages (especially for lead-based paint or radon issues)

Always review your paperwork and ask for missing disclosures before handing over money or signing an agreement.

Tribunal for Residential Tenancies in Illinois

Illinois does not have a single tenant tribunal, but disputes are handled in local county courts. In Chicago, the Cook County Housing Court oversees many landlord-tenant matters. For state resources, see the Illinois Attorney General's Landlord and Tenant Resources.

FAQ

1. What happens if my landlord didn’t give me the lead-based paint form?
   You can notify the landlord in writing. If they refuse, you may have the right to cancel the lease or seek legal help. Failing to provide this form is a violation of federal and Illinois law.
2. Do all renters in Illinois need a radon disclosure?
   No. Only tenants moving into units below the third floor must receive a radon disclosure under state law.
3. Is the landlord required to tell me about code violations?
   Depending on your city, yes. For example, in Chicago, they must notify renters of any uncorrected building code violations or housing court cases affecting your unit.
4. Are landlords required to give a security deposit disclosure statewide?
   Only buildings with five or more units must follow the state’s security deposit disclosure rules, but Chicago, Evanston, and other cities may have additional requirements.
5. Who should I contact if my landlord isn’t giving required disclosures?
   Start with your city or county housing department, legal aid, or the Illinois Attorney General's Office.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Illinois Renters

• Illinois landlords must provide disclosures about lead-based paint, radon, property management, security deposits, and (sometimes) code violations before move-in.
• Use the official forms linked here and keep copies for your records.
• If in doubt or missing information, seek help from official resources before signing your lease.

Understanding these disclosures can help you rent with confidence and avoid problems down the road.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Illinois Attorney General's Landlord and Tenant Resources
• Illinois Emergency Management Agency: Radon Information for Landlords and Tenants
• City of Chicago Rents Rights
• Cook County Housing Court
• Illinois Legal Aid: Security Deposits

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1. Illinois Security Deposit Return Act, 765 ILCS 710/ (2024)
2. Illinois Radon Awareness Act, 420 ILCS 46/ (2024)
3. Lead Disclosure Rule, 42 U.S.C. § 4852d
4. Chicago Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance
5. Illinois Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Rights

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