Illinois rental laws have undergone significant updates in 2025, affecting how and when landlords can increase rent, as well as introducing new protections for tenants. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what tenants need to know about rent increases and related changes this year.
No Statewide Rent Control, but Notice Is Required
Illinois does not have statewide rent control, meaning landlords are generally free to set rental rates based on market conditions. However, landlords must follow strict notice requirements before increasing rent:
- Month-to-month leases: Landlords must provide at least 30 days’ written notice before a rent increase takes effect.
- Leases less than a year: 30 days’ written notice is also required.
- Leases of one year or more: Landlords must give 60 days’ written notice before raising the rent.
The notice must clearly state the new rent amount, the effective date of the increase, and include the landlord’s signature. If a landlord fails to provide proper notice, the rent increase may not be valid or enforceable.
Rent Increases During a Lease Term
Landlords cannot raise rent during the term of an active lease. The rent agreed upon at the start of the lease remains in effect for the full lease duration. Rent can only be increased at the end of the lease, and only with the required advance notice. The only exception is if both tenant and landlord agree in writing to amend the lease terms.
New Tenant Protections in 2025
1. Retaliation Protections
A major legislative change in 2025 is the new Landlord Retaliation Act. Under this law, landlords are prohibited from increasing rent, terminating tenancy, or reducing services in retaliation for tenants making complaints-such as reporting code violations or unsafe conditions-to authorities or the media. If a landlord takes such actions within one year of a tenant’s complaint, it is presumed to be retaliatory, and the landlord must prove otherwise.
2. Payment Flexibility and Transparency
- Landlords can no longer require tenants to pay rent exclusively through electronic funds transfer. Tenants now have the right to pay by other means, such as check or cash.
- Landlords must provide written receipts for all rent and security deposit payments, including the date, amount, tenant and landlord names, and property address.
3. Security Deposit Changes
- There are now clearer guidelines for security deposit limits and return timelines.
- Landlords must return security deposits within 45 days after the tenant vacates and provide a written receipt within 10 days of receiving the deposit.
Potential for Local Rent Control
While statewide rent control is still banned under the Rent Control Preemption Act, new legislation (such as House Bill 3687) has been introduced that could allow local governments to enact rent control if approved by local voters via referendum. As of May 2025, this bill is still under consideration and has not yet become law.
Tenant Rights and What to Do if Facing a Rent Increase
- Review your lease: Ensure the notice period aligns with state law.
- Check the notice: The notice must be in writing and include all required details.
- Understand retaliation: If you’ve recently made a complaint, any rent increase within a year could be considered retaliation, which is illegal.
- Negotiate or seek help: If you believe a rent increase is unlawful or retaliatory, communicate with your landlord in writing and consider seeking legal advice or assistance from a local tenants’ rights organization.
Illinois Rent Increase Laws 2025
| Lease Type | Minimum Notice Required | Can Rent Be Increased During Lease? | Retaliation Protections |
|---|---|---|---|
| Month-to-month | 30 days | No | Yes |
| Lease < 1 year | 30 days | No | Yes |
| Lease ≥ 1 year | 60 days | No | Yes |
Illinois’ 2025 updates aim to balance landlord flexibility with stronger tenant protections, especially regarding notice requirements and retaliation. Tenants should stay informed about their rights and review any rent increase notices carefully to ensure compliance with the new laws.
Sources:
- https://www.oflaherty-law.com/learn-about-law/illinois-landlord-tenant-law-changes
- https://www.doorloop.com/laws/illinois-landlord-tenant-rights
- https://legiscan.com/IL/bill/HB3687/2025
- https://www.gcrealtyinc.com/blog/how-2025-illinois-tenant-credit-report-law-impacts-landlords
- https://www.hemlane.com/resources/illinois-rent-control-laws/
