Early Lease Termination Under the Chicago RLTO and Cook County RTLO
Missing ordinance summaries, failure to deliver possession, undisclosed code violations, or unresolved habitability problems may provide grounds to end a lease early. Have your lease and the facts reviewed before taking action.
Who this law covers
- Tenants in Chicago apartment buildings
- Tenants renting condo units, homes, or townhomes
- Renters with written or oral leases
Common issues
- Landlord did not attach the required ordinance summary
- Unit was uninhabitable
- Building code violations were not disclosed
- Ongoing habitability problems left unrepaired
Chicago and Cook County, Illinois Lease Break Guide
Select a topic below to read the full explanation.
Missing Ordinance SummaryCloseRead more
A missing Summary of the law or the failure to attach the required Summaries provides for legal early lease termination. Chicago and Cook County, Illinois use different procedures; the Cook County, Illinois Summary remedy includes an opportunity to cure. Have both the lease and renewal attachments reviewed before giving notice.
Failure to Deliver PossessionCloseRead more
When the landlord cannot deliver possession in compliance with the lease, written notice may permit termination and recovery of prepaid amounts. Chicago also addresses specified habitability failures at move-in. The Cook County, Illinois possession provision focuses on compliance with the rental agreement.
Unresolved Habitability DefectsCloseRead more
Material conditions that make a dwelling unit unfit may support termination after a compliant written notice and an opportunity to remedy the problem. Keep photographs, repair requests, and proof of delivery. The type of defect, timing, and landlord response affect the available remedy.
Undisclosed Violations or Utility ShutoffsCloseRead more
Required disclosures include cited code violations, pending enforcement matters, and certain utility-shutoff notices. Chicago and Cook County, Illinois do not use the same cure requirements for disclosure violations. Do not move out or stop paying rent solely on the assumption that a violation ends the lease automatically.
Do You Require Legal Help ASAP?
Email Aaron your most current lease and a short description of the issues you are facing. Aaron will review it and respond by email.