Summary
As a renter in Illinois, you have rights under the Illinois Residential Tenant and Landlord Act, including the right to a habitable dwelling, essential services, privacy, and peaceful possession. Peaceful possession means landlords cannot interfere with your use of the property without proper notice. If you have an outstanding balance but are making consistent payments, your right to peaceful possession should not be infringed. Landlords can charge late fees for past due balances and initiate eviction for non-payment of rent. Rent increases must be accompanied by sufficient notice, typically 30 days for month-to-month leases. In college towns, rent may reflect market rates, but drastic increases should be discussed with your landlord or a local attorney.Full Conversation
I would like to know what my rights as a renter if I feel they have been infringed
Hello ****, as a renter in Illinois, you have certain rights under the Illinois Residential Tenant and Landlord Act such as:
- Right to a habitable dwelling
- Right to certain essential services
- Right to privacy
- Right to peaceful possession
Could you please provide more specifics on what you believe has been infringed?
Could you explain the right to peaceful possession?
In Illinois, the right to peaceful possession means that once a rental agreement is in place, the landlord cannot interfere with your use and enjoyment of the property. They cannot enter the property without proper notice or at unreasonable times, and cannot harass or intimidate you.
Would my right of peaceful posession be infringed upon if I have an outstanding balance but has been paid upon?
In Illinois, if you have an outstanding balance but are making payments, your right to peaceful possession should not be infringed upon. However, if you breach the terms of your lease agreement, such as not paying rent on time, the landlord may take legal action, including eviction.
If I have a balance that I have paid down significantly in a few short months can they then send court summons?
In Illinois, a landlord can start an eviction process if a tenant fails to pay rent. However, if you're making consistent payments and reducing the balance, it may be seen as good faith. It's best to communicate with your landlord about your situation.
So if I have been making payments consistently and the balance has also decreased is it lawful for them to attempt to evict me?
In Illinois, landlords can initiate eviction if rent is unpaid. However, if you've consistently made payments and reduced your balance, it may show good faith. Always keep communication open with your landlord. Legal advice from a local attorney could also be beneficial.
Also, if I have an outstanding balance but I'm paying my rent on time can they continue to charge late fees even if my rent from month to month isn't late?
In Illinois, if your current month's rent is paid on time, late fees should not apply. However, late fees for any outstanding balance from previous months may still be charged, depending on your rental agreement. Always refer back to your lease agreement for such details.
Why is this legal?
The legality of these actions by landlords is based on the terms of your lease agreement and Illinois state laws. The Illinois Residential Tenant and Landlord Act allows landlords to charge late fees for past due balances and initiate eviction proceedings for non-payment of rent. This is to protect the rights and interests of both the landlord and the tenant.
Is it normal for rent price to jump more than *% in a 5 year period?
In Illinois, there's no state law limiting how much a landlord can increase rent. However, a drastic increase like *% could be seen as discriminatory or retaliatory, especially if it's done without proper notice. Are there specific circumstances causing this increase?
No.
A sudden increase in rent without specific reasons could potentially be viewed as unfair. However, in Illinois, there is no rent control law that limits how much a landlord can increase rent. You may want to consider discussing the increase with your landlord or seeking advice from a local attorney.
The reasoning given for raising the rent that high is supposedly to keep up with market rates
In Illinois, landlords can raise rents to match market rates. However, they must provide sufficient notice and can't increase rent during a lease term. If you feel the raise is unreasonable, it's advisable to communicate with your landlord or seek legal advice.
but what if the market rate is artificially boosted by living in a college town where dorms are?
In Illinois, landlords can increase rent to match market rates, even in a college town. However, if the increase seems unreasonable or discriminatory, consider seeking legal advice or contacting local housing authorities. Remember, communication with your landlord is crucial.
what is considered sufficient notice?
In Illinois, for a month-to-month lease, landlords are required to provide at least 30 days' notice before raising the rent. For leases longer than month-to-month, the terms of the lease will dictate the notice requirement. Always refer to your lease agreement for specifics.
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