Understanding Your Lease
When renting a home, a tenant generally has a contract (or lease) between themselves and the landlord. There are two types of leases: written and oral. Both are legally binding, but it's crucial to understand what one is agreeing to before signing a lease or making an oral agreement with the landlord.
NOTE: Any oral promises made by the landlord before signing the lease may not be binding if they aren't included in the final written lease.
Illinois laws covers the duties and responsibilities for landlords and tenants:
- Landlord entry: No specific notice requirement before entering
- Nonrenewal of lease: Landlord must give 30 or 60 days of notice.
- Security deposits
- Rent increase
- Repairs and maintenance
- Eviction: A landlord is allowed to file an eviction in the following cases: non-payment of rent, violating the lease terms, and remaining at the property after the lease term ended.
- Discrimination
Knowing your rights as a tenant can help you handle issues that may arise with the landlord. While you may never experience any problems, being prepared and educated about your lease and your rights can provide peace of mind. Remember, knowledge is power.
The above article provides information about legal issues but is not the same as legal advice. Legal advice is when a lawyer applies the law to your specific situation. The information in this article does not replace the advice or representation of a licensed attorney. Law Center for Better Housing cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information in this article and is not responsible for any consequences that may result from using it. You should consult with a licensed attorney to ensure the information in this article is appropriate for your specific situation. Using the information in this article does not create a relationship between Law Center for Better Housing and you as your attorney.