Mobile Homes: Rights and Responsibilities of Tenants in Chicago

Park owners and tenants have specific duties under the Illinois Mobile Homes Landlord and Tenant Act to ensure fair treatment and proper maintenance of the mobile home park. Below is an overview of their rights and responsibilities.

Responsibilities of Tenants:

1. Keep the Property Clean
   • Maintain your mobile home and lot in a clean and safe condition. 765 ILCS 745/13.
   • Avoid storing junk, inoperable vehicles, or hazardous items on the property. 765 ILCS 745/13.
   • Store vehicles only in designated areas and do not perform major car repairs in the park. 765 ILCS 745/13.
2. Maintain Basic Facilities
   • Keeping plumbing, cooking, refrigeration, and electrical equipment clean and in good condition. 765 ILCS 745/13.
   • Do not damage or remove any part of the mobile home or park property. 765 ILCS 745/13.
3. Follow Park Rules
   • Abide by all written rules and regulations provided by the park owner.
   • Respect your neighbors by not disturbing their peace.
   • Follow guest parking rules if they are clearly stated. 
4. Pay Rent on Time
   • Pay your rent as stated in the lease agreement.
   • Notify the park owner if you plan to move or end your lease.

Rights of Tenants:

1. Right to Privacy
   • Park owners cannot enter your mobile home without your consent, except in emergencies.
2. Right to Meet
   • The park owner can’t prohibit tenants from meeting and discussing mobile home living if they are at reasonable hours and at available locations. 765 ILCS 745/25. 
3. Protection Against Unfair Eviction
   • You cannot be evicted as retaliation for reporting health or safety violations or joining a homeowners’ association.
4. Fair Lease Terms
   • Your lease cannot include unfair terms, like requiring you to buy goods or services only from the park owner. If there is a centralized distribution system for fuel oil or bottled gas, the park owner can’t charge more than a reasonable retail price. 765 ILCS 745/19.
   • Rent increases must follow proper notice and procedures.
5. Protection from Unfair Fees
   • A park owner cannot ask for or accept extra money (such as gifts, bonuses, or donations) in exchange for giving you a lease or helping you buy a mobile home. If you are charged an unfair fee, you may be able to get back twice the amount you paid. 765 ILCS 745/20.
6. Protection from False Advertising
   • If a park owner or developer provides false or misleading information in ads or promotional materials about a mobile home or park, you may have the right to cancel your contract or seek compensation for any losses. 765 ILCS 745/20.5.
7. Right to Sell
   • The park owner can’t interfere with the mobile home owner’s sale. 
   • The owner can’t impose a fee or commission, except when the tenant asks for help with finding a buyer. Then, the commission can be (1) a percentage of the actual sales price of the mobile home and (2) it is agreed upon in writing before the sale. 765 ILCS 745/24.

By understanding these rights and responsibilities, park owners and tenants can work together to create a safe and enjoyable community.