The security deposit is not money that your landlord
should keep after you move out
unless:
-
you moved out owing rent; or
- you damaged some of part of the apartment.
 In Chicago and Evanston, the security deposit which
the landlord is holding is actually the property of
the tenant. Within 30 days of moving out, the
landlord should notify you, in writing, whether he
or she is going to make any deductions from your
security deposit for repairs for damages you caused.
If the landlord does not notify you of damages, then
the landlord is obligated to return the security
deposit within 45 days of your moving out. If the
landlord notifies you of the estimated cost of
repairs, he or she has an additional 30 days to
furnish you with paid receipts. In Evanston, the
landlord has 21 days to make deductions and must
return the security deposit within 21 days.
If your landlord has:
- not returned your deposit after you moved; or
- failed to pay interest on your security deposit;
or
- unfairly claimed your deposit for repairs; or
- only returned part of your deposit
you need to phone us, we can help you:
(773) 478-1133.
[The Illinois
Tenants Union is not a law firm or legal services
corporation; however, our executive director is a
licensed Illinois attorney. And, we also have
relationships with other experienced attorneys who
will legally represent tenants should the need
arise.]
If you have any
questions or would like more information, or to discuss your
rights please contact us (773) 478-1133,
email us, or use our
online
request form. |
