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

2. Chicago Landlord and Tenant Ordinance “RLTO”
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. Find A Partner – Choose who is Tenant and Landlor
You live in a beautiful place on Lakeshore with a view of Lake Michigan – Congrats!
Oh no. . . There is a fire caused by an electrical failure and the unit is badly damaged!
Reach an agreement for how the two of you should deal with this issue.

7. What are the possible legal solutions
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

8. 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

9. ISSUES Apartment / Building Conditions
Your landlord has the responsibility of maintaining the building in compliance with building, health and safety codes.
Eviction
If your landlord wants to remove you from your home, s/he must follow the law.
Housing Discrimination
Fair Housing: It’s not an option, it’s the law!
Illegal Lockouts
Your landlord may not forcibly remove you from your apartment.

10. ISSUES Landlord Retaliation
Renters have protections against retaliatory landlords.
Security Deposits
Security deposits may be used only for damages that make an apartment un-rentable.
Tenants in Foreclosure
Foreclosure doesn’t mean “Get out now!” If you are renting an apartment, house or condo that is in foreclosure, you have rights.
Utilities / Essential Services
Denying essential services such as heat, water, or electricity is wrong and may pose serious health and safety risks.