Common Conditions FAQ: What Can I Do if I Have Rodents?

Are you living in Evanston and finding unwelcome guests like rodents in your home? Don't worry, you're not alone, and there are things you can do about it!

If the Evanston Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance (RLTO) applies, a tenant can: 

1. Inform Your Landlord: The first step is to let your landlord know about the rodents with a 14-day demand letter. Tenants should do this in writing, like sending an email or a letter. It’s a good idea to keep a copy of this communication for your records. 
2. Give Some Time: Your landlord needs time to fix the rodent problem. According to the RLTO, they usually have about 14 days to start getting rid of those pests. If they don't take any action, things can get more serious.
3. City Inspection: If your landlord doesn't do anything about the rodents, you can call 311 or email propertymaintenance@cityofevanston.org. They might send someone to check the situation and tell your landlord to fix it.
4. Assert Legal Rights: If the rodent problem is terrible and your landlord isn't doing anything, you can withhold some of your rent money, terminate the lease, or pay for the extermination services. A 14-day letter must be sent before withholding rent or repairing and deducting. A 30-day letter must be sent before terminating the lease. It’s important to follow the rules carefully, so don’t hesitate to talk to a lawyer before you try this.

If the Evanston RLTO does not protect you, click here for other options. 

Remember, the key thing is to keep good records of everything. Write down when you told your landlord, any responses you got, and any actions you took. This can be helpful if things get more serious and you need to show that you tried to solve the problem.

Dealing with rodents can be really frustrating, but you have rights to make sure your home is a comfortable and safe place to live. Just remember to stay informed, follow the rules, and don't hesitate to ask for help if you need it.