Illinois Rent Control History and Campaigns Explained

Illinois renters often face questions about rent increases and how much protection they have under state law. While rent control and rent stabilization are debated topics in many states, Illinois has a unique legislative history that shapes current renter protections. Understanding these historic campaigns, and what laws and agencies affect renters today, is key for anyone renting in Illinois.

Rent Control in Illinois: Past and Present

Illinois does not have statewide rent control laws. In 1997, the state legislature passed the Illinois Rent Control Preemption Act, which prohibits cities and counties from enacting local rent control ordinances.^[1] This law means that, unlike cities like New York or San Francisco, Illinois cities cannot independently regulate rent increases on private residential units.

Key Points from Historic Rent Control Campaigns

• Local tenant advocates and organizations, especially in Chicago, have pushed for rent control since the late 20th century.
• Proposals for local rent control ordinances have arisen in response to rapidly increasing rents, particularly after the 2008 housing crisis and in recent years as market rates surged in metropolitan areas.
• Illinois' Rent Control Preemption Act (1997) blocks any form of local rent control unless state law is changed.

Recent Advocacy and Legislative Efforts

Despite the current statewide ban, renter coalitions have continued efforts to repeal the preemption law. These campaigns aim to give cities like Chicago and Evanston the right to consider local rent regulations. While bills have been introduced in the Illinois General Assembly, none have passed as of 2024. For updates on new legislation, renters can check the Illinois General Assembly website.

What Protection Do Illinois Renters Have Against Rent Increases?

Without statewide rent control, most residential landlords in Illinois can increase rent with proper notice at lease renewal or expiration. However, federal, state, and local fair housing rules still protect renters from discrimination or illegal eviction.

Required Notice for Rent Increases

• Month-to-month tenancies: At least 30 days’ written notice before the rent increase takes effect.^[2]
• Fixed-term leases: Rent generally can’t be raised until the lease term expires, unless the lease says otherwise.

Check your written lease and be sure to receive all notices in writing. Chicago renters have additional protections through the Chicago Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance (CRLTO).^[3]

Official Forms for Illinois Renters

While there are no specific “rent control” application forms due to the statewide ban, Illinois renters may encounter official forms related to lease termination, rent increase notices, or complaints about housing issues.

• 30-Day Notice to Terminate Tenancy (Form not numbered)
  Use: Used by landlords to notify tenants (in month-to-month rental arrangements) that the tenancy will end or the rent will change in 30 days.
  Example: If your landlord wants to raise your rent, you should receive a written notice at least 30 days before the new amount begins.
  Official Source: Illinois Legal Aid: Landlord raising your rent
• Complaint or Request for Inspection (Chicago, Form not numbered)
  Use: If you live in Chicago and believe a landlord is violating local ordinances (such as the CRLTO), you may file a complaint with the Department of Housing.
  Example: For issues such as retaliatory rent increases or unsafe living conditions.
  Official Source: Report Illegal Landlord Actions – City of Chicago

Which Illinois Tribunal Handles Rental Disputes?

In Illinois, most housing and rent disputes are addressed through the local Circuit Courts. For Chicago renters, the Department of Housing helps administer renter protections and can hear some complaints about illegal landlord actions.

Relevant Tenancy Legislation

• Illinois Rent Control Preemption Act (1997) – bans local rent control ordinances
• Illinois Security Deposit Return Act
• For Chicago: Chicago Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance (CRLTO)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is rent control currently legal anywhere in Illinois?
   No, Illinois law currently blocks all cities and counties from enacting any form of rent control or rent stabilization.
2. How much notice must my landlord give before raising my rent?
   For month-to-month leases, you must receive at least 30 days’ written notice. For fixed-term leases, the rent cannot change until the lease expires unless your lease says otherwise.
3. Can cities like Chicago enact rent control if local voters support it?
   No, not unless the Illinois General Assembly amends or repeals the state Rent Control Preemption Act.
4. Where do I go if I have a dispute with my landlord about rent increases?
   Start with your local court, and consider informing your city’s housing or tenant department. In Chicago, the Department of Housing can help address certain issues.
5. Are there any forms I can use if I want to challenge a rent increase?
   Illinois does not have a statewide rent increase challenge form, but you may write to your landlord or contact local housing authorities if you suspect discrimination or retaliation.

Summary of Key Takeaways

• Illinois bans rent control statewide under the 1997 Rent Control Preemption Act.
• Renters have the right to proper written notice for rent increases, and cities can advocate but not implement rent control laws as of 2024.
• For complaints or disputes, renters can turn to their local Circuit Court or city housing department.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Illinois Rent Control Preemption Act (full text)
• Illinois Legal Aid – Rent Increases
• Illinois Circuit Courts – Find Your Local Court
• City of Chicago Department of Housing – Renter Services
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Illinois

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1. See: Illinois Rent Control Preemption Act (50 ILCS 825)
2. See: Landlord raising your rent – Illinois Legal Aid
3. See: Chicago Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance (CRLTO)

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