Is arbitration required for all landlord-tenant disputes in Illinois?

No, arbitration is usually voluntary unless required by a local ordinance or lease agreement. Many disputes are handled in small claims court or through mediation first.

Can a renter use arbitration for eviction cases?

Arbitration or mediation may be suggested for eviction situations, but formal court procedures still apply. Arbitration can help reach a settlement before a potential eviction judgment.

Are arbitration decisions binding in Illinois?

Arbitration results are generally non-binding unless both tenant and landlord consent in writing. You have the right to reject the outcome unless you specifically agree otherwise.

Where can I find forms to start arbitration?

Most forms are found at your county circuit court clerk's office. Cook County forms are available from the official online portal.

What laws protect me during the arbitration process?

Illinois renters are protected by the Security Deposit Return Act, Rent Concession Act, and relevant local ordinances.

Understanding Tenant-Landlord Arbitration in Illinois

Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Illinois published June 21, 2025

Disputes between tenants and landlords in Illinois can be stressful—especially when they involve rent, repairs, or eviction threats. Fortunately, arbitration programs, sometimes called alternative dispute resolution (ADR), provide renters and landlords with ways to settle issues outside of court and often reach a fair, quicker solution. This guide explains how arbitration works for residential renters in Illinois, outlines the official processes, and shows where to find the right forms and support.

What Is Arbitration in Illinois Tenant-Landlord Disputes?

Arbitration is a form of dispute resolution where an impartial third party (an arbitrator) helps tenants and landlords resolve disagreements. Instead of going to court, both parties present their sides, and the arbitrator can suggest or impose an outcome. In Illinois, this process is voluntary unless required by local housing programs or a lease agreement.

When Should Renters Consider Arbitration?

Common disputes resolved by arbitration include:

Security deposit disagreements
Repair or maintenance delays
Lease violations or unclear lease terms
Eviction or early termination conflicts
Rent increases (when local ordinances allow negotiation)

Arbitration is typically faster and less formal than going through the court system.

How Arbitration Works for Renters in Illinois

Some Illinois counties and cities offer formal mediation or arbitration services through their local tenant-landlord programs or circuit courts, especially in Chicago and Cook County. These programs help renters and landlords reach solutions with the help of neutral experts.

Examples of Official Programs

Cook County Mandatory Arbitration Program: Handles certain civil disputes, including some landlord-tenant issues.
Chicago Commission on Human Relations — Mediation: Offers dispute resolution for housing discrimination and related conflicts.

The Illinois Rent Concession Act and the Illinois Security Deposit Return Act set out the legal framework for rental agreements and dispute resolution in the state.^1,2

Key Forms and How To Use Them

Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form (Cook County):
Cook County Standard Complaint Forms are used if arbitration fails and you need to file a formal case. For example, a renter who hasn't received their security deposit may use the "Small Claims Complaint" form to start resolution in court. Download from the official forms page.
Request for Arbitration — Civil Division (CCG N003):
If your dispute is eligible, this form begins the arbitration process in the Cook County court system. See instructions and download it directly from the official source.
Example: Two roommates disagree on responsibility for property damage. They can file this form to ask for an arbitrator to help resolve the disagreement.

Always confirm with your local county court or Illinois Department of Human Rights if you are unsure which forms to use.

What to Expect at an Illinois Arbitration Session

Here’s what typically happens:

An arbitrator is assigned after both parties agree or a program requires it
Each party can present documents, photos, or other evidence
The arbitrator may ask questions and guide negotiation
In most programs, results are binding only if both people agree

Arbitration doesn’t erase your right to later go to court, unless both sides accept the outcome in writing.

Tribunal Handling Tenant-Landlord Disputes

In Illinois, small claims and eviction matters are handled through local Circuit Courts. For renter-landlord arbitration, Cook County Court – Arbitration Department oversees many official programs. Your own county court may have similar services—always check their website or office for guidance and up-to-date forms.

FAQ: Illinois Tenant-Landlord Arbitration

Is arbitration required for all landlord-tenant disputes in Illinois?
No, arbitration is usually voluntary unless required by a local ordinance or lease agreement. Many disputes are still handled in small claims court or through mediation first.
Can a renter use arbitration for eviction cases?
Arbitration or mediation may be suggested for eviction cases, but court procedures still apply. Arbitration may help find a settlement before any eviction goes to a judge.
Are arbitration decisions binding in Illinois?
Arbitration results are usually non-binding unless both tenant and landlord agree in writing. You can reject an outcome if you do not consent to it in advance.
Where can I find the forms to start arbitration?
Most forms are available from your county circuit court clerk. In Cook County, use the official forms portal. Double-check eligibility before filing.
What laws protect me in an arbitration process?
Illinois renters are protected under the Security Deposit Return Act and Illinois Rent Concession Act, as well as local Chicago ordinances.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Renters

Arbitration provides a flexible, less formal way to resolve rental disputes in Illinois
Official forms and support are available from county courts (like Cook County) and city programs
Know your legal rights and always consult up-to-date state resources before starting arbitration

Arbitration can benefit renters seeking quick solutions but does not remove your rights under Illinois law. When in doubt, seek guidance from official agencies below.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Cook County Arbitration Department – Information and contacts for arbitration in the Chicago area
Illinois Legal Aid Online – Free resources and statewide referral links
Chicago Department of Housing – Info on renter rights and city dispute support
Illinois Department of Human Rights – Handles discrimination and fair housing complaints
Security Deposit Return Act and Rent Concession Act (Official Illinois Statutes)