Common Conditions FAQ: Can the Landlord Charge Me for Repairs?
Under the Chicago Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance, tenants have responsibilities just like landlords do. Section 5-12-040 of the RLTO. Every tenant must:
- Notify the landlord about bed bugs;
- Keep the premises safe;
- Throw away all garbage, ashes, and waste;
- Keep plumbing fixtures clean;
- Reasonably use all electrical, plumbing, sanitary, heating, ventilating, air conditioning and other facilities and appliances, including elevators, in the premises;
- Not deliberately or negligently destroy, damage, or remove anything in the building; and
- Avoid disturbing neighbors' peaceful enjoyment of the premises.
If the tenant doesn't follow the rules and causes the conditions issues, the landlord can charge the tenant for those repairs. Section 5-12-130(c) of the RLTO.
- If the tenant doesn't fix the problem within 14 days after the landlord writes to them about it, then the landlord can go into the apartment and do the needed repairs. The tenant must reimburse the landlord for those repairs.
- If the tenant doesn't fix the problem promptly in case of an emergency, then the landlord can go into the apartment and do the needed repairs. The tenant must reimburse the landlord for those repairs.
The above article provides information about legal issues but is not the same as legal advice. Legal advice is when a lawyer applies the law to your specific situation. The information in this article does not replace the advice or representation of a licensed attorney. Law Center for Better Housing cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information in this article and is not responsible for any consequences that may result from using it. You should consult with a licensed attorney to ensure the information in this article is appropriate for your specific situation. Using the information in this article does not create a relationship between Law Center for Better Housing and you as your attorney.