Mobile Homes: What Information Must a Park Owner Give You in Cook County?

When you rent or buy a mobile home or lot in Illinois, the park owner must give you important written information. This helps you understand your rights and what to expect. 

Required Disclosures 

Here’s what the law (765 ILCS 745/6.5) says a park owner must provide with every lease, renewal, or sale.

1. Rent History – The park owner must tell you the rent charged for the lot or home for the past five years.
2. Park Owner Responsibilities – You must receive a list of what the park owner is responsible for maintaining or repairing.
3. Additional Fees – Any extra charges beyond base rent must be clearly listed.
4. Late Payments – The park owner must explain what happens if rent is paid late, including any penalties.
5. Privilege Tax – If there’s a tax on mobile homes in the park, the owner must inform you.
6. Security Deposits – You must be told how deposits work, including your right to get them back with interest (as per 765 ILCS 745/18).
7. Future Rent Increases – The park owner must provide a three-year projection of rent increases. This includes:
   • The next two years covered by the lease.
   • The following year after the lease ends.
   • How the increases are determined (fixed amount, formula, or maximum limit).
   • Additional costs due to property taxes, utilities, insurance, or government fees.
8. Park Ownership Contact – You must be given the contact information of the park owner or their manager.
9. Inspection Notices – If the park has been cited for health or safety violations, the report must be disclosed.
10. Right to Trial by Jury – You cannot be forced to waive your right to a jury trial.

Updates and Changes

• The park owner must update this disclosure at least once a year.
• If you renew your lease, they must tell you about any changes.
• If the park is sold, the new owner must notify all tenants within 20 days. The notice can be delivered in person, by mail, or posted in a common area (765 ILCS 745/6.5).

Special Circumstances

• Bankruptcy or Foreclosure: If the park owner files for bankruptcy or faces foreclosure, they must notify tenants in writing within 30 days. The notice can be given to a resident at least 13 years old or sent by first-class mail. 765 ILCS 745/6.6. 
• Health and Safety Violations: If the park fails an inspection, the park owner must post the inspection report in a visible place until the violations are corrected. 765 ILCS 745/6.7. 
• Sale of the Mobile Home Park: If the owner plans to sell the mobile home park, they must notify the homeowners’ association in writing. The notice must include the sale price and terms. 765 ILCS 745/6.25.

Knowing your rights helps you make informed decisions about your home. If you do not receive these disclosures, you may want to seek legal advice or report the issue to the proper authorities.