Understanding Leases: Cook County RTLO Summary Attached to Lease

If you're a renter in Cook County, it's important to know your rights and responsibilities under the Cook County Residential Tenant Landlord Ordinance (RTLO).

One important provision of the RTLO is that landlords are required to provide a copy of the summary of the ordinance. The summary is a brief overview of the key provisions of the ordinance, including information about security deposits, repairs, and other important topics. Click here for a copy of the summary.

By providing the summary attachment to the rental agreement, the landlord is making sure that the tenant is aware of their rights under the law. This helps to prevent misunderstandings or disputes between the landlord and the tenant. It's important for renters to read the summary carefully and to ask questions if they have any concerns or questions about their rights.

What happens if the landlord does not provide a copy of the Cook County RTLO summary?

First, the tenant needs to give the landlord written notice that they failed to provide the summary and give a deadline of two business days for the landlord to cure the violation. If the landlord does not provide the summary after two business days, then the tenant may:

1. Terminate the lease.
2. Sue the landlord for $200.00.

If the tenant decides to terminate the rental agreement, they must specify the date of termination no later than 30 days from the date of written notice. The written notices required by this section may be delivered electronically if the parties have previously communicated electronically.