Illinois Rent Control: What Renters Need to Know in 2024

In Illinois, growing rents are a major concern for many tenants, especially as housing costs outpace income. While the topic of rent control is regularly debated in Illinois, the current legal landscape can be confusing. This guide breaks down where rent control stands now, explains what changes could be coming, and offers practical advice for renters seeking stability in their housing.

Current Rent Control Laws in Illinois

Right now, Illinois does not have statewide rent control. In fact, the Illinois Rent Control Preemption Act (50 ILCS 825) prohibits local governments from enacting rent control policies.^[1] This means:

• Landlords in most Illinois cities can raise rent as they see fit, provided they give proper notice, and do not violate local anti-discrimination or tenant protection ordinances.
• Certain local rules in cities like Chicago do offer additional tenant protections, but not full rent stabilization or caps on increases.

Key terms:

• Rent control: Laws that limit how much a landlord can increase rent annually.
• Rent stabilization: Similar, often adds protections like limiting evictions.

Recent and Proposed Changes to Rent Control in Illinois

There have been multiple attempts to introduce rent control in the Illinois legislature in recent years, particularly in response to rent spikes in larger cities. These efforts focus on repealing the statewide ban, allowing cities or counties to establish local rent control policies tailored to their needs.

• Proposals have included allowing local governments to vote on rent control or to set limits on how much rent can increase per year.
• As of 2024, no such changes have become law. The Illinois Residential Tenants’ Right to Repair Act and the Chicago Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance (RLTO) do give some recourse for renters, but do not establish rent limits.^[2][3]
• Stay up to date with the Illinois State Legislature’s current bills on rent control and tenant rights.

How Rent Increases Work Under Current Laws

Even without rent control, landlords must still follow notice requirements when increasing rent. Under the Illinois Security Deposit Return Act and Residential Tenants’ Rights policies, these are some of the basic rules:

• In most cases, a landlord must give at least 30 days written notice before raising the rent for a month-to-month tenant.
• If you have a lease, your rent cannot be increased until the lease term ends unless stated otherwise in your lease agreement.
• There is no maximum limit on rent increases statewide—only the required notice.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

• 30-Day Notice of Rent Increase (No standard state form.)
  How and when to use: If your landlord plans to raise your rent on a month-to-month lease, they must provide written notice at least 30 days in advance. This is often delivered by mail or in person. You do not need to fill out a form unless you are contesting the increase or giving notice to terminate your tenancy.
  See tenant notice guidelines from Illinois.gov.^[4]
• Complaint Form for Rental Disputes (varies by city, e.g., Chicago Department of Housing)
  When to use: If you believe your landlord has not given proper notice or is violating local ordinances, you may file a complaint with your local city or municipal housing department.
  File a complaint with the City of Chicago.

Always keep a copy of any notices or complaints you send or receive for your own records.

Which Tribunal Handles Residential Tenancy Issues?

In Illinois, landlord-tenant disputes are generally handled through your local county court or, in Chicago, by municipal agencies. The Circuit Court of Cook County, Civil Division oversees eviction and rent disputes in Chicago and Cook County.^[5]

For statewide information, see the Illinois Circuit Court directory.

What Could the Future Hold for Rent Control?

While the Rent Control Preemption Act currently prevents rent caps, advocacy continues for potential policy changes. Renters should watch for:

• Legislation to repeal the preemption and allow local rent control
• Local initiatives in cities with escalating rents, such as Chicago or Evanston
• Public forums or hearings where tenants can voice concerns

FAQ: Illinois Rent Control and Tenant Rights

1. Is rent control currently legal in any Illinois city?
   No, statewide law prohibits local rent control ordinances anywhere in Illinois.
2. How much advance notice does a landlord need to give before raising rent?
   Typically, at least 30 days written notice is required for month-to-month tenants.
3. Who handles landlord-tenant disputes in Illinois?
   Your local county Circuit Court handles disputes, and in Chicago, the Circuit Court of Cook County Civil Division oversees cases.
4. How can I file a complaint if my landlord raises rent without proper notice?
   You can file a complaint with your city’s housing department, such as the Chicago Department of Housing, or seek help from the local Circuit Court.
5. Where can I read the official state law about rent control?
   You can view the Rent Control Preemption Act online.

Key Takeaways for Illinois Renters

• Illinois currently bans all forms of local rent control by state law.
• Legislative efforts are ongoing and may impact future rental regulations—stay updated through official sources.
• Understand required notice periods for rent increases and keep written documentation in case of disputes.

If you are uncertain about your rights or receive a rent increase notice, check official Illinois court and housing resources for guidance.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity – Housing Assistance
• City of Chicago Renters Resource Hub
• Illinois Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Law Guide
• Find Your Local Illinois Circuit Court

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1. Illinois Rent Control Preemption Act (50 ILCS 825)
2. Illinois Residential Tenants’ Right to Repair Act
3. Chicago Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance
4. Illinois Legal Resource Guide, Landlord-Tenant Law
5. Cook County Circuit Court – Civil Division

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