Illinois Rules for Left-Behind Property When Moving Out

When moving out of a rental in Illinois, renters often wonder what happens to property left behind. Understanding abandonment rules can help you avoid losing your belongings or facing unexpected costs. Illinois has specific laws that protect both tenants and landlords, ensuring fairness in the handling of abandoned property.

What Is Considered Abandoned Property in Illinois?

In Illinois, abandonment typically means the tenant has moved out and left items behind without clear intent to return. If rent is unpaid or keys are returned, landlords may consider the property abandoned. The state’s rules aim to ensure renters are treated fairly and have an opportunity to reclaim their belongings.

Landlord’s Responsibilities: Storing and Notifying

Under the Illinois Compiled Statutes - Landlord and Tenant Act, landlords must:

• Inspect the rental unit for personal property after you vacate
• Store your items in a safe place for a required period if you have not clearly abandoned them
• Attempt to notify you in writing of any property left behind, typically mailed to your last known address or given personally

Important: If you know you’ll leave something temporarily, let your landlord know in writing to avoid misunderstandings.

Time Limits: How Long Will My Belongings Be Kept?

Generally, landlords must keep the property for at least seven (7) days after notice is delivered or mailed. After this period, if unclaimed, the landlord can dispose of or sell the property. If your lease is under the City of Chicago, the Chicago Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance (RLTO) may grant additional protections, so always check your local policies.

How to Recover Left-Behind Property

If you realize you’ve left property behind, act quickly:

• Contact your landlord immediately in writing (email or certified mail is best)
• Arrange a pickup within 7 days or as soon as possible
• Bring identification when collecting your belongings

What If Landlords Don’t Follow the Law?

If a landlord disposes of your property before the required period, you may file a complaint with local housing authorities or take legal action. The Illinois Department of Human Rights and local housing offices handle related disputes. Always keep copies of communications and any notices you receive.

Relevant Forms and Where to Get Them

• Notice of Abandoned Property (No standard statewide form): Used by landlords to inform you that your property has been left and will be disposed of if not collected. Typically sent by mail or given in person. For Chicago renters, view sample property notice requirements at the Chicago RLTO Summary page.
• Complaint Form – Illinois Department of Human Rights: Use this if you believe your rights were violated in the handling of your belongings. File online through the IDHR official complaint portal.

While there’s no mandatory state-wide form for recovering property, written communication (email, letter) is strongly recommended to document your request.

Which Government Agency Handles Tenancy Issues?

Most rental disputes and housing concerns in Illinois are managed by state and local offices, such as:

• Illinois Attorney General – Tenant Rights: Guidance, complaint intake, and housing rights enforcement
• For Chicago, the Department of Housing oversees RLTO complaints

There is no single “tribunal,” but unresolved cases may go to local Small Claims Court under the local circuit court system. For additional details, visit the Circuit Court of Cook County for the Chicago area.

FAQ: Illinois Rules for Abandoned Property After Moving Out

1. How long do landlords have to keep my belongings after I move out in Illinois?
   Landlords must store your left-behind property for at least 7 days after giving you written notice. Some local ordinances may have longer periods.
2. Will I be charged for storage if I leave belongings behind?
   In some cases, landlords can charge reasonable storage fees if this is specified in your lease or local ordinance. Check your lease and discuss with your landlord beforehand.
3. What should I do if my landlord throws away my property before the 7-day period?
   You may file a complaint with the Illinois Attorney General or local housing agency. Gather any evidence and communications to support your case.
4. Are rules different in Chicago compared to the rest of Illinois?
   Yes. Chicago has its own Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance (RLTO) that may offer additional tenant protections.
5. How can I officially notify my landlord to retrieve my property?
   Send a letter or email including your contact information and request a written response. Keep a copy for your records.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Illinois Renters

• If you leave belongings behind, your landlord must notify you and keep your things for at least 7 days.
• Always communicate promptly and in writing—this protects your rights and helps avoid misunderstandings.
• Chicago residents should consult RLTO for possible extra safeguards.

Understanding your rights can help you recover your property swiftly or avoid confusion when moving out.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Illinois Attorney General – Landlord/Tenant Rights: Official guidance and complaint forms
• Chicago Department of Housing: Renters’ Services: Information and tenant help in Chicago
• Illinois Department of Human Rights: File housing discrimination complaints
• Circuit Court of Cook County: Small Claims Court resources (for unresolved disputes)

---

1. Illinois Compiled Statutes - Landlord and Tenant Act
2. Chicago Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance (RLTO)
3. Illinois Attorney General: Landlord/Tenant Rights

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