Illinois Rules for Landlord Electricity Shutoff for Non-Payment

Utilities, Services & Billing Illinois published June 21, 2025 Flag of Illinois

If you're renting in Illinois, you might worry about what your landlord can do if you fall behind on payments—including whether they can turn off your electricity. Utility shutoffs are a serious problem, but Illinois law gives renters strong protections. Here, you'll learn your rights, when (if ever) a landlord can disconnect electricity for non-payment, and what steps you can take if it happens.

Can a Landlord Shut Off Electricity for Non-Payment in Illinois?

Under Illinois law, landlords are not allowed to turn off or interrupt essential utility services—even if a tenant is behind on rent or utilities—unless it's for necessary repairs, emergencies, or when required by law. This protection is part of the Illinois Residential Tenants' Right to Repair Act and specifically addressed in the Illinois Security Deposit Return Act and local landlord-tenant ordinances.[1] Direct shutoff by a landlord is considered an "illegal lockout" or "constructive eviction," and serious penalties can apply.

What If Utilities Are in the Landlord's Name?

If your lease says utilities are included (meaning the landlord pays the utility company directly), the landlord still cannot cut off service as a way to collect payment or pressure you to leave.

  • If a landlord intentionally fails to pay the utility bill, causing shutoff, you may have a right to take action for damages or use remedies described in state or local law.
  • Emergency repairs or scheduled maintenance are exceptions, but landlords must give reasonable advance notice, except in true emergencies.

What If Utilities Are in the Tenant's Name?

If you pay the utility company directly and miss a payment, only the utility company (not your landlord) has the power to disconnect service—and they must follow strict procedures, including written notice and a delay period.

Ad

Your Rights and Remedies If Electricity Is Shut Off

If your landlord wrongfully disconnects electricity or causes it to be cut off, you have several legal remedies. The law treats this as a serious violation, and you may be able to:

  • Recover possession of your apartment
  • Receive damages—sometimes up to two months' rent or actual damages, whichever is greater
  • File a complaint in court to have your utilities restored

The main governing legislation is the Illinois Forcible Entry and Detainer Act, as well as local ordinances in places such as Chicago and Cook County.[2]

If your landlord threatens or shuts off utilities, document everything—take photos, save texts or notices, and contact legal help right away.

Official Forms and Where to File Complaints

  • Illinois Tenant Utility Complaint Form (No official statewide form name/number)
    When to use: If your landlord has illegally shut off electricity, you can file a complaint in county court or with your local landlord-tenant office.
    How to use: Prepare a written complaint outlining the facts, attach evidence such as utility bills or texts from the landlord, and submit to your local county circuit court or city housing department.
    Cook County Court official court forms
  • Chicago Rents Notice To Landlord—Utility Interruption Form (City of Chicago Only)
    When to use: If you rent in Chicago and your landlord interrupts utility service, you can provide notice and request a remedy under the Chicago RLTO.
    How to use: Fill out the written notice, deliver it to your landlord, keep a copy, and if not resolved, file a case at the Chicago Department of Housing.

Tribunal That Handles Landlord-Tenant Disputes

In Illinois, landlord-tenant disputes are typically handled by your local Illinois Circuit Court. Larger cities may also provide local housing departments or commissions for informal complaints and mediation.

Steps Renters Can Take If Electricity Is Shut Off

If you experience a shutoff, follow these actions to assert your rights and restore service:

  • Contact your landlord in writing (keep copies).
  • Document all conditions—date, time, effects, communications.
  • If the landlord does not restore service, submit a formal complaint to your county circuit court, or your city or county housing authority (such as in Chicago or Cook County).
  • Seek legal aid or advocacy support (see below).

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can a landlord legally turn off electricity in Illinois if I miss rent payments?
    No, landlords cannot legally disconnect electricity or any essential services for missed payments in Illinois. This is considered an illegal lockout and tenants have protections under Illinois law.[1]
  2. What should I do if my landlord shuts off my electricity?
    Document the incident, contact your landlord in writing to request restoration, and if not resolved, file a complaint with your local Circuit Court or city housing authority. Consider seeking legal aid.[2]
  3. Can a landlord ever disconnect utilities for renovations or repairs?
    Only for necessary repairs or emergencies, and even then, landlords must provide advance notice and restore service as quickly as possible.
  4. What official form do I use to file a complaint about an illegal utility shutoff?
    There is no single statewide form. In most counties, you can file a complaint in Circuit Court, using forms available from your local court or housing department. In Chicago, additional city forms are available.[2]
  5. Who handles tenant complaints about utility shutoffs in Illinois?
    The Illinois Circuit Courts primarily handle these issues. In Chicago and some other locations, city departments may have additional tenant protection offices.

Key Takeaways for Illinois Renters

  • Landlords in Illinois cannot legally shut off electricity for non-payment; only the utility company may disconnect service, and only after notice.
  • Document all incidents and respond in writing if faced with a shutoff—then file a formal complaint with your county Circuit Court if needed.
  • Extra protections apply under city ordinances, especially in Chicago. Local forms and remedies may be available.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

  1. Illinois Forcible Entry and Detainer Act
  2. Chicago Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance (RLTO)

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations
Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Renter Rights USA

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.

Related Articles