1. How to negotiate and decide the legality around issues with renting.

2. Chicago Landlord and Tenant Ordinance All rental units with written or oral lease Except….. – Hotels, motels, school dorms, shelters, co-ops, employee housing

3. What is a landlord responsible for in Chicago? Written or oral lease that is “notarized” Maintaining public walkways and landscaping Must provide gas, running water, electricity, heat, and plumbing Replacing weather damaged items Provide a 30 day notice for contract renewal/ eviction Abiding by local, state and federal laws

4. Mini Quiz! Question: Can a landlord enter your apartment? Answer: Yes. They must provide a 2 day notice unless it is an emergency. In the case of an emergency they can enter immediately. Example of an emergency? GAS LEAK!

5. What are you responsible for as a tenant? Abiding by the contract and city, state, municipal codes Maintaining smoke detector batteries and keep the unit safe and clean Preventing damage (be careful who you room with in college……….) Avoiding disturbing other residents

6. Tenants Rights if there is a fire or damage to their building You may move out immediately and provide written notice to the landlord You may stay in the unit if it is safe and legal to do so If the landlord fails to make repairs you may leave and provide written notice to the landlord

7. How can you protect yourself as a renter? Take pictures before you sign a contract Make a list of all imperfections in the apartment and have your landlord SIGN the list Actually get your contract notarized (insist on a written lease) Provide a request in writing for repairs to the landlord Pay rent on time Purchase renters insurance (avg. $30/mo) Choose roommates and subleasers wisely