Illinois Mobile Home Park Rules & Tenant Rights Guide

Living in a mobile home park in Illinois means you have unique rights and responsibilities. Understanding both the rules set by your park and the legal protections under state law can help you maintain a secure and comfortable tenancy. This guide covers the essential information about mobile home park rules, tenant protections, and legal processes in Illinois in clear, everyday language.

Understanding Mobile Home Park Rules in Illinois

Illinois mobile home parks often have specific rules about parking, guest policies, quiet hours, lot maintenance, and use of shared spaces. As a tenant, these rules should always be provided in writing and must comply with state law. Changes to the rules must be communicated to residents at least 30 days before taking effect.

• Written Rules: You have the right to receive written copies of all park rules when you move in and whenever they change.
• Rule Changes: The park owner must notify all tenants of any new or changed rule at least 30 days in advance.
• Enforcement: Rules must be reasonable, not retaliatory, and apply equally to all tenants.

If you believe a rule is unfairly applied or violates your rights, you have legal options, discussed further below.

Key Tenant Rights Under Illinois Law

The main law protecting renters in Illinois mobile home parks is the Illinois Mobile Home Landlord and Tenant Rights Act (765 ILCS 745).[1] This law sets standards for rent increases, evictions, maintenance, and more.

• Fair Rent Increases: Rent cannot be increased unless you are given at least 90 days’ written notice. The notice must state the new amount and the date the increase takes effect.
• Eviction Protections: Park owners may only evict you for specific reasons, such as non-payment of rent, violation of park rules, or park closure. A written notice and a court process are always required.
• Maintenance Duties: Park owners must maintain common areas, roads, and essential utilities, while you are usually responsible for your home and lot upkeep.
• Lease Agreements: Written leases or rental agreements are strongly recommended. You must receive a copy, and the terms must follow state law.

Required Official Forms in Illinois

• Eviction Complaint Form (FOR-E 820): Used by landlords to formally start eviction proceedings.
  Example: If a landlord believes you violated park rules and has issued you a required notice, an eviction complaint is filed in court using this form.
  Official Illinois Eviction Forms
• Notice of Termination of Tenancy: No single statewide form, but it must be a written notice stating the reason for termination and the time you have to respond or move.
  Example: If rent is unpaid, you must receive a written notice (usually 5 days) to pay or leave before eviction can proceed.
  Official statute on notice requirements

For more on forms, visit the Illinois Courts' official forms page.

What If I Disagree with a Park Rule or Eviction?

The Illinois Circuit Court is the official tribunal for landlord-tenant cases, including mobile home park disputes. You can file a response or appear in court to contest an eviction or rule enforcement action.

Rent Increases and Your Options

Summary: Rent can only be raised with proper notice. You have rights if increases are improperly issued.

• All rent increases require at least 90 days’ written notice.
• Increases can only occur as allowed in your written lease or rental agreement.
• If you receive less notice, or believe the increase is discriminatory or retaliatory, you may dispute it with the park manager or in court.

Eviction Protections and the Legal Process

Summary: Eviction can only happen for set legal reasons, and you are entitled to notices and a fair hearing.

• Common legal reasons for eviction include non-payment of rent, breaking major park rules, failing to maintain your lot, or park closure.
• A written notice (like a 5-day notice for unpaid rent, or 20- to 30-day notice for rule violations) must be provided first.
• Eviction can only proceed after a court hearing—if you receive a summons, you have the right to present your side.
• The Illinois Circuit Court handles all eviction hearings.

Maintenance and Repairs

If a park owner fails to maintain shared areas or utilities as required, you can:

• Send a written request for repairs
• Contact the Illinois Department of Public Health Mobile Home Program
• Seek legal assistance to resolve ongoing hazards or neglect

FAQ: Illinois Mobile Home Park Renters

1. What notice must my landlord give before increasing rent?
   By law, your landlord must provide at least 90 days’ written notice before raising rent in a mobile home park.
2. Can I be evicted without cause from a mobile home park in Illinois?
   No. Eviction can only occur for reasons permitted under the Mobile Home Landlord and Tenant Rights Act, with the required written notice and a court process.
3. Where do I respond if I receive an eviction notice?
   You should respond in writing and may need to appear at your county's Circuit Court, which handles eviction cases for mobile home parks in Illinois.
4. What should I do if park maintenance is poor?
   Submit written repair requests to the park, then contact the Illinois Department of Public Health if conditions remain unsafe or unaddressed.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Illinois Mobile Home Park Tenants

• Written notice is required for rent increases and evictions—know your timelines and rights.
• You have the right to safe conditions and proper rule notices. Enforcement goes through the Illinois Circuit Court.
• Use official forms and contact government agencies when you need help asserting your rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Illinois Circuit Court locator – Find your local courthouse for disputes and eviction hearings
• Illinois Department of Public Health Mobile Home Park Program – Health and safety concerns or complaints
• Illinois Legal Aid Online – Free legal information and resources
• Read the Illinois Mobile Home Landlord and Tenant Rights Act

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1. Illinois Mobile Home Landlord and Tenant Rights Act (765 ILCS 745)
2. Illinois Circuit Court
3. Illinois Dept. of Public Health Mobile Home Park Program
4. Official Illinois Eviction Forms

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