Chicago landlords are legally required to maintain rental units in compliance with the city building code and health standards. When they fail, tenants can file complaints with the City of Chicago Department of Buildings or CDPH and pursue remedies under the RLTO.
Under the Chicago Municipal Code and the RLTO, landlords must maintain rental units in compliance with all applicable building, housing, and health codes. This includes working plumbing, heating, electrical systems, pest-free conditions, structural integrity, and functioning smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. The landlord is responsible for repairs to common areas and building systems regardless of what the lease says.
Always put repair requests in writing — email is acceptable. Describe the problem clearly, include photos, and keep a copy for your records. Under the RLTO, if the landlord fails to make repairs within 14 days of receiving written notice (or a shorter time for urgent issues), tenants may have the right to make repairs and deduct the cost from rent, or to withhold rent in proportion to the reduced value of the unit.
If your landlord is unresponsive, file a complaint with the City of Chicago by calling 311 or submitting online through the CHI 311 portal. Complaints about building code violations go to the Department of Buildings, while health-related issues (mold, pests, unsanitary conditions) are handled by the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH). Inspectors will be dispatched and can issue citations and fines against the landlord.
The RLTO gives tenants the right to make repairs and deduct the cost from rent if the landlord fails to maintain the property. The cost cannot exceed the greater of $500 or one half month's rent. The tenant must provide 14 days written notice and the landlord must fail to begin repairs within that period. This remedy is available for conditions that affect health or safety and are not caused by the tenant.
3 questions answered
Call 311 or use the CHI 311 app/website to file a complaint. The Department of Buildings will send an inspector. Keep a copy of your complaint number and photograph the conditions before the inspection.
Yes, under the RLTO. You can hire a licensed contractor to repair a condition that makes your unit uninhabitable, then deduct the cost from rent — up to $500 or half a month's rent (whichever is less). You must give the landlord 14 days written notice first.
You can withhold up to $500 or half a month's rent (whichever is less) after giving 14 days written notice. You must deposit the withheld amount into escrow. Get legal advice before doing this.
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. For advice specific to your situation, contact a qualified attorney or one of the free legal services listed above.