Illinois Rent Stabilization: What Renters Need to Know

Many Illinois renters worry about surprise rent increases or losing their homes. With rising living costs, it's important to understand whether rent stabilization laws protect you in Illinois, and what steps you can take if you feel your rent has increased unfairly. This guide clearly explains the current laws in Illinois, what forms and actions are available to you, and where to turn for help—so you're empowered to make informed housing decisions.

Does Illinois Have Rent Stabilization or Rent Control?

As of 2024, Illinois does not have statewide rent stabilization or rent control laws. In fact, state law currently prohibits local governments from enacting rent control ordinances.^[1] This means landlords in most Illinois cities and towns can increase rent when a lease ends, with some exceptions depending on the lease agreement.

• No statewide limits on how much rent can be increased after your lease expires
• Landlords must still follow fair notice requirements for rent increases
• Chicago and other municipalities do not have rent stabilization due to the state ban, even if local advocacy exists

Your Rights When Facing a Rent Increase

If your landlord raises your rent, your rights mostly depend on your rental agreement and the state’s general landlord-tenant laws. Even though Illinois does not have rent stabilization, some protections still exist:

• Proper Notice: Landlords must give written notice before a rent increase can take effect:
• Month-to-Month Lease: At least 30 days’ written notice
• Fixed-Term Lease (e.g., 1-year): No increase until lease renewal, unless otherwise specified in your agreement
• You are not required to accept a rent increase. You can choose to move out at the end of your lease instead.
• Retaliatory or discriminatory rent increases are illegal under Illinois law.^[2]

What If You Disagree with a Rent Increase?

If you think your landlord has increased your rent illegally or in retaliation for asserting your rights, you may:

• Discuss the issue with your landlord and request more time or explanation (preferably in writing).
• File a complaint for housing discrimination with the Illinois Department of Human Rights.
• Request mediation or legal help from a local tenant support organization.

Key Forms for Illinois Renters

• Notice of Rent Increase (no standard state form)
  • Landlords typically draft their own written notice stating the old rent, new rent, and the effective date.
  • Example: If you have a month-to-month lease and receive a letter informing you that rent will rise from $900 to $1000 starting next month (with at least 30 days’ notice).
• 30-Day Notice to Terminate Tenancy
  • Used by either tenant or landlord to end a month-to-month lease. No official Illinois state form, but you can find suggested templates on the Cook County Circuit Court Forms page.
  • Example: If you can't afford the new rent, you may give the landlord 30 days’ written notice that you are moving out.
• Housing Discrimination Complaint - Illinois Department of Human Rights Form
  • File when you believe a rent increase is based on illegal discrimination (like race, family status, or disability).
  • Find the form and instructions on the Illinois DHR How to File a Charge page.

The Official Housing Tribunal in Illinois

Most rental disputes, including rent increases or eviction notices, are handled in local county courts, known as Circuit Courts.^[3] There is no single statewide residential tenancy tribunal; instead, each county's court hears landlord-tenant cases.

Relevant Illinois Tenant Laws

While Illinois has no rent stabilization, tenants have rights under the Illinois Landlord and Tenant Act and, in Chicago, the Chicago Residential Landlord Tenant Ordinance (RLTO). These laws cover:

• The amount of notice required for rent changes
• Security deposit rules
• Anti-retaliation protections
• Eviction processes

While rent stabilization is not available in Illinois, knowing your general rights and the correct steps can help you protect your housing situation or find fair solutions with your landlord.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Illinois have any rent control or rent stabilization laws?
   No, Illinois state law prohibits rent control and rent stabilization by local governments, so these protections are not available.
2. How much can my landlord raise my rent in Illinois?
   There are no state limits on rent increases, but landlords must provide proper written notice (usually 30 days for month-to-month tenants).
3. Who handles disputes about rent increases or evictions in Illinois?
   Local Circuit Courts are responsible for landlord-tenant disputes in Illinois. In Chicago and Cook County, the Circuit Court of Cook County is the main authority for these cases.
4. Can I refuse a rent increase?
   Yes, you can refuse by giving notice and moving out at the end of your lease. If you stay and don’t pay the higher rent, you may face eviction after proper legal notice.
5. What should I do if I think a rent increase is discriminatory?
   You can file a complaint with the Illinois Department of Human Rights using their official complaint form.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Illinois Department of Human Rights – File housing discrimination complaints
• Cook County Circuit Court Landlord/Tenant Section – Information and forms for tenants in the Chicago area
• Illinois Legal Aid: Rent Increases – Guidance for renters facing rent hikes (informational resource)
• Chicago Renters’ Rights (RLTO) – Extra protections if you live in Chicago

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1. [1] Illinois Rent Control Preemption Act: State law that preempts (bans) local rent control
2. [2] Illinois Landlord and Tenant Act, 765 ILCS 705
3. [3] Cook County Circuit Court Landlord/Tenant Section

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