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Illinois Landlord-Tenant Laws

Illinois has no statewide cap on security deposits and no statewide statute mandating advance entry notice. The Security Deposit Return Act requires landlords with 5 or more units to return deposits within 45 days (30 days for itemized deductions); month-to-month tenancies end on 30 days' written notice.

Informational summary, not legal advice. Landlord-tenant law changes and local ordinances may add requirements. Verify the current statute (765 ILCS 710 (Security Deposit Return Act); 735 ILCS 5/9-207 (termination)) or consult a licensed Illinois attorney before acting. All rentals must also comply with the federal Fair Housing Act — you may not select tenants or write listings based on a protected class.

Key Illinois rental rules at a glance

Security deposit limitNo statutory limit
Deposit return deadline45 days (landlords with 5+ units; 30 days to send itemized deductions)
Landlord entry noticeNo statewide statute (24 hours common; some local ordinances apply)
Month-to-month termination notice30 days
Governing statute765 ILCS 710 (Security Deposit Return Act); 735 ILCS 5/9-207 (termination)

Illinois rental law — common questions

How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Illinois?

No statutory limit. This is a general summary of 765 ILCS 710 (Security Deposit Return Act); 735 ILCS 5/9-207 (termination); verify the current statute or consult a Illinois attorney, as rules change and local ordinances may add requirements.

How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Illinois?

45 days (landlords with 5+ units; 30 days to send itemized deductions) after the tenant moves out, per 765 ILCS 710 (Security Deposit Return Act); 735 ILCS 5/9-207 (termination) (general summary — confirm the current deadline).

How much notice must a Illinois landlord give before entering?

No statewide statute (24 hours common; some local ordinances apply). Always check the lease and the current statute; this is informational only, not legal advice.

How much notice ends a month-to-month tenancy in Illinois?

30 days. Notice rules vary by situation — verify the current Illinois statute or consult an attorney.

Renting out a property in Illinois?

List for rent by owner with a flat-fee listing, screen applicants fairly, and reach renters directly. Our For Rent By Owner guide walks through pricing, marketing, lawful screening, and the lease.

List your rental →For Rent By Owner guideIllinois rentals

Rental laws in other states

ListMyHomes.com is a licensed brokerage that acts only as a neutral facilitator. This page is general educational information, not legal advice, and may not reflect the most recent changes or local ordinances. Always verify the current statute or consult a licensed attorney for your situation.