Illinois Tenant Move-Out Walk-Through Checklist Guide

When you're preparing to move out of a rental property in Illinois, it's important to conduct a careful final walk-through. This process helps protect your rights, maximize your security deposit return, and ensure all state requirements are met. This guide explains the key steps, legal responsibilities, and essential forms to make your Illinois move-out walk-through smooth and stress-free.

Understanding Your Rights: Move-Out Inspection Basics in Illinois

Illinois law supports tenants by requiring landlords to follow proper procedures when ending a lease and returning the security deposit. The final walk-through, sometimes called a move-out inspection, lets you and your landlord document the condition of your rental and agree on any needed repairs or cleaning. This inspection can help prevent disputes about damages and deposit deductions.

What to Expect During the Final Walk-Through

Most Illinois landlords schedule the walk-through at or near the end of your lease, after you’ve removed belongings but before returning the keys. While the law doesn’t require a formal move-out inspection statewide, it is highly recommended and is required for some localities and subsidized housing. Some landlords may use an official checklist or ask you to sign inspection forms.

• Inspect each room for damage beyond normal wear and tear.
• Ensure walls, floors, appliances, and fixtures are clean and undamaged.
• Check smoke detectors, plumbing, and electrical outlets.
• Test windows and doors for function and locks.
• Note any items in writing and take dated photos as documentation.

Official Forms and Key Paperwork

While Illinois does not have a statewide mandated move-out form, Chicago tenants must use special documents, and many landlords throughout the state have their own inspection checklists.

Sample Move-In/Move-Out Inspection Checklist

• Form Name: Residential Move-In/Move-Out Inspection Report (Chicago-specific forms linked below)
• How it's used: This form is completed at move-in and again at move-out to note the condition of each room and all appliances. It's signed by both tenant and landlord. For example, if you notice a stain on the carpet during move-out that was there at move-in, it's important that it was recorded earlier, so you aren't held responsible.
• Chicago Move-In/Move-Out Checklist Form (Official PDF)

Security Deposit Return Statement

• Form Name: Security Deposit Itemization Statement (no form number; letter format is acceptable)
• How it's used: Illinois law requires landlords in buildings with 5 or more units to return any unused deposit, or provide an itemized statement of deductions, within 30 to 45 days after lease end. If repairs are claimed, landlords must attach paid receipts or written estimates. For example, if deductions are being made for cleaning or damage, your landlord must include copies of these receipts.
• Illinois Security Deposit Return Law - Official Text

For more on legal protections, see the Illinois Security Deposit Return Act, and for guidance specific to Chicago, review the City of Chicago Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance.

Action Steps for a Successful Walk-Through

• Review your lease for any special move-out conditions.
• Contact your landlord in advance to schedule the walk-through.
• Use a move-in/move-out checklist to assess each room.
• Take clear photos before leaving the property.
• Request a signed copy of the inspection report from your landlord.
• Leave a forwarding address for your security deposit return.

Which Tribunal or Government Body Handles Rental Issues in Illinois?

Illinois does not have a statewide housing tribunal for rental disputes. Most issues are handled via the local Circuit Courts. In Chicago, you can seek help from the Department of Housing and the Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance office.

FAQ: Illinois Tenant Move-Out Inspections

1. Do Illinois landlords have to do a final walk-through with tenants?
   State law does not require a final walk-through, but some local ordinances like Chicago strongly encourage or require it. Tenants should always request one for documentation.
2. How long does a landlord have to return my security deposit in Illinois?
   For buildings with five or more units, landlords must return your deposit or an itemized list of deductions within 30-45 days depending on circumstances.
3. What should I bring to my walk-through?
   Bring a printed move-in/move-out checklist, your original move-in photos (if any), your lease, a camera or phone for current photos, and a pen for notes.
4. What can landlords legally deduct from my security deposit in Illinois?
   Deductions can only be made for unpaid rent or damages beyond normal wear and tear. Receipts must be provided for repairs or cleaning.
5. Where can I get help if I have a dispute about my deposit?
   You may contact your local Circuit Court or the Chicago Department of Housing if within Chicago for help with disputes.

Conclusion: Illinois Tenant Move-Out Checklist

• Document everything at move-out with photos and checklists.
• Communicate clearly with your landlord and request inspection paperwork.
• Understand your security deposit rights and timelines per Illinois law.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Illinois Security Deposit Return Act (Official Text)
• City of Chicago Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance
• Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation Tenant Rights Brochure
• Chicago Move-In/Move-Out Checklist (Official)
• Cook County Circuit Court Rent & Mortgage Relief

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1. Illinois Security Deposit Return Act (765 ILCS 710)
2. Chicago Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance (RLTO)
3. Cook County Circuit Court

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