Security Deposit Rights Under the Chicago RLTO and Cook County RTLO
Chicago landlords must follow rules for holding and returning security deposits. Aaron reviews deposit returns, unpaid interest, receipts, and deductions under the applicable rental ordinance.
Who this law covers
- Tenants in Chicago apartment buildings
- Tenants renting condo units, homes, or townhomes
- Renters with written or oral leases
Common issues
- Security Deposit not returned within 45 days
- Security Deposit Itemization Not Provided Within 30 Days
- Interest on the security deposit never paid or not timely paid within 30 days after the end of each 12 month rental period.
- Deductions without paid receipts
- Failure to provide a written receipt for any security deposit payment to the Landlord.
- Unlawful security deposit commingling and failure to provide the bank name & address where the security deposit is being held in the lease signed by tenant
Chicago and Cook County, Illinois Security Deposit Guide
Select a topic below to read the full explanation.
Prohibition on Commingling, Written Receipt Requirements, and Payment of InterestCloseRead more
The original guide explains separate-account requirements, disclosure of the bank’s name and address in the lease, a signed receipt when the deposit is paid, and annual interest requirements for qualifying deposits. Returning a deposit does not necessarily resolve earlier handling violations.
Chicago: Returns and DeductionsCloseRead more
Landlords must follow the ordinance’s return deadlines and supply itemized damage statements and supporting paid receipts or permitted cost certifications. Ordinary wear and tear is distinct from tenant-caused damage. Save move-in and move-out photographs, payment records, and deduction correspondence.
Cook County, Illinois: Amount and DocumentationCloseRead more
The RTLO limits the deposit amount and provides installment options for the portion above one month’s rent. It also regulates itemized deductions and proof of repair costs. These protections should be evaluated under Cook County, Illinois provisions rather than assumed to match Chicago’s.
Potential RemediesCloseRead more
The source guides discuss deposit recovery, statutory damages, interest, and attorney-fee remedies for qualifying violations. Liability, cure provisions, coverage, and filing deadlines must be reviewed for the specific claim. A recovery amount is not guaranteed.
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.