Mobile Homes: Rent and Fees in Chicago

If you rent a lot or home in a mobile home park, you should know the rules about rent and fees. Illinois law protects tenants from unfair charges and makes sure park owners follow clear rules.

Clear List of Charges

The lease and any bills from the park owner must clearly list all charges, including rent, service fees, and other costs. This helps tenants understand what they are paying for. 765 ILCS 745/9.

Rent Increases

Park owners can only raise the rent when a lease is renewed. They must give 90 days’ written notice before increasing rent. This gives tenants time to decide if they want to stay. 765 ILCS 745/9.

Fees That Are Not Allowed

Some fees are illegal, meaning park owners cannot charge them:

• Selling or Moving Fees – If you sell your mobile home and it stays in the park, the owner can’t charge a fee unless they provide a service. 765 ILCS 745/9.
• Legal Fees or Fines – Park owners can’t make tenants pay for fines or legal costs unless the tenant caused the problem. 765 ILCS 745/9.
• Pet Fees – If you own your home, you can’t be charged a pet fee unless the park provides a pet-related service that you agree to. If you rent from the park, pet fees can be included in the lease. 765 ILCS 745/9.
• 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.

Late Fees

If you pay rent late, the park owner can charge a late fee, but only if:

• The lease clearly states the late fee amount.
• You get at least 5 extra days to pay before the late fee is added. (765 ILCS 745/9)

Security Deposits

Security deposits protect the park owner in case of damage, but they have rules too:

• The deposit can’t be more than one month’s rent. (765 ILCS 745/12)
• If the park has 25 or more lots, the owner must pay you interest on your deposit if they keep it for more than 6 months. You must receive the interest in cash once a year. (765 ILCS 745/18)

These laws help tenants avoid unfair charges and make sure rent and fees are handled fairly. If you know your rights, you can protect yourself and your home!