Illinois Tenant Rights: Domestic Violence Security & Locks

Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Illinois published June 21, 2025 Flag of Illinois

For renters in Illinois, facing domestic violence can be overwhelming and frightening. Fortunately, Illinois law provides special protections so that tenants in dangerous situations have safe options to protect themselves while maintaining their housing stability. This article explains what renters need to know about emergency protections, locks, and lease rights if you’re experiencing domestic violence in Illinois.

Your Rights as a Tenant Experiencing Domestic Violence

Illinois recognizes that tenants facing domestic or sexual violence may need to take urgent action for their safety—even if it involves adjusting lease agreements or making changes to the rental property. Key protections are provided under the Illinois Safe Homes Act. These protections apply regardless of your gender, relationship status, or whether you’re on the lease.

Key Legal Protections

  • Early Lease Termination: You may break your lease without penalty if you or a household member are a victim of domestic violence, sexual violence, or stalking.
  • Changing Locks: You can request your landlord to change the locks, or in certain situations, change them yourself for immediate safety.
  • No Retaliation: Landlords cannot evict, penalize, or refuse to rent to you because you’ve used your domestic violence protections.

How to Exercise Your Rights

To access these protections, Illinois law requires that renters follow the official process and provide specific documentation to landlords. Acting quickly and keeping a written record is always recommended.

Early Lease Termination for Victims

  • You must provide your landlord with written notice and a qualifying document (such as a protective order or police report).
  • After providing notice, your lease can end no sooner than 30 days from the date of written notice.

Requesting a Lock Change

  • Submit a written request to your landlord, along with one of the qualifying documents.
  • The landlord must change the locks within 48 hours of your written request (or 24 hours if the abuser does not live in the rental).
  • If the landlord does not act within this timeframe, you may change the locks yourself (at your own expense), provided you give the landlord a copy of the new key.
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Required Documents and Official Forms

Illinois law states you must provide "qualified third party" documentation when requesting early lease termination or lock changes. These commonly include:

  • Order of Protection (Form OP-CO-1): This is the official court order protecting you from an abuser. Use this form when you have a final or interim protection order; show it to your landlord to exercise your rights. Find Illinois court protection order forms here.
  • Police Report: A recent official police report indicating you are a victim of domestic, sexual, or dating violence or stalking. Provide the report as documentation if you do not have a restraining order.
  • Third Party Statement: A written statement from a qualified advocate, medical professional, or other official using the format outlined by the state. Find guidance at the Illinois Housing Development Authority.

For both lock changes and lease break notices, always keep copies of all communications and documents for your records.

Illinois Landlord-Tenant Tribunal and Relevant Legislation

In Illinois, disputes over security, locks, or lease protections are generally handled by your local circuit court, depending on your county. You can learn more and find court contact information at the Illinois Courts Directory.

The primary state law protecting renters in these situations is the Illinois Safe Homes Act and the Illinois Residential Tenants' Right to Repair Act.

What If Your Landlord Refuses or Retaliates?

If a landlord does not honor these requirements, renters can take legal action in the circuit court. Courts may order the landlord to comply, provide compensation for damages, and may even levy fines. Your local legal aid office or tenant advocacy service can help with next steps.

If your landlord does not take action within the required timeframe, be sure to document your attempts (emails, certified mail, etc.). This paper trail may protect you if you need to escalate to court.

Your Next Steps: Taking Action

In summary, you have the right to safety and privacy in your Illinois home. The state provides clear steps and legal forms to help you exercise these rights when facing domestic violence. Don’t hesitate to seek support—these protections are there for your security and peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can my landlord evict me for calling the police about domestic violence? No. Illinois law protects tenants from being evicted, penalized, or discriminated against for seeking help in a domestic violence situation.
  2. Do I have to pay extra to change the locks if I'm a victim? If the landlord changes the locks, the cost is generally your responsibility, unless stated otherwise in your lease. If you change them yourself (after proper notice), you must provide the landlord with a copy of the new key.
  3. What qualifies as proof that I'm a victim of domestic violence? You can use an order of protection, a police report, or a formal letter from a qualified third party (such as a medical professional or victim advocate) as outlined by Illinois law.
  4. How quickly can I terminate my lease if I give notice? Your lease can end no sooner than 30 days after you give written notice to your landlord, along with the required documentation.
  5. Which court handles disputes about domestic violence tenant protections? Disputes in Illinois are typically handled by the circuit court in your county. Find your county court at the Illinois Courts Directory.

Key Takeaways for Illinois Renters

  • Illinois renters facing domestic violence have special rights to end leases and change locks for their safety.
  • Proper documentation is essential—orders of protection, police reports, or third-party statements are commonly accepted.
  • Your landlord cannot retaliate against you for seeking these protections.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

  1. Illinois Safe Homes Act, 765 ILCS 750
  2. Illinois Residential Tenants’ Right to Repair Act, 765 ILCS 742
  3. Illinois Court-Approved Protection Order Forms
  4. IHDA Legal Help Resources

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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.

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