Building Codes & Habitability — Illinois
Warranty of habitability, repair obligations, and city rental programs
State Habitability Standard
Illinois — implied warranty of habitability (Glasoe v. Trinkle); Chicago RLTO § 5-12-110
Chicago RLTO §§ 5-12-110, 5-12-130; 765 ILCS 735/ (statewide repair and deduct)
Minimum Habitability Requirements
- Fit for human habitation
- Compliance with applicable building codes materially affecting health/safety
- Plumbing and hot water in working order
- Heat capable of 68°F in living areas (Chicago: 68°F Oct 1 - Jun 1; 66°F at night)
- No rodent or pest infestation
- Working smoke detectors (Chicago: in each room used for sleeping)
- Carbon monoxide detectors near sleeping areas
- Secure building entrances and locks
Repair Obligations & Tenant Remedies
14
Days Landlord Has to Repair
Before tenant may use repair-and-deduct remedy
1x
Monthly Rent Cap
Maximum tenant can deduct per repair episode
Rent Withholding
Rent withholding permitted under state law for serious habitability failures
City-Level Rental Programs
Some cities require rental registration, periodic inspections, or have specific habitability ordinances beyond state law. Enter your city to check for a local program.
Known Illinois cities in our database: check Chicago above for city-specific programs.
Governing Statute
735 ILCS 5/9-201 et seq. (Forcible Entry and Detainer) + Chicago RLTO (locally)
This tool provides legal information, not legal advice. Nothing on this site creates an attorney-client relationship. For advice about your specific situation, consult a licensed attorney in your state.