Illinois Tenant Harassment Laws
Illinois prohibits landlord retaliation against tenants who complain to government authorities and bars self-help eviction tactics such as lockouts and utility shutoffs.
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Key Rules
- Anti Harassment
- Anti-retaliation protections; self-help eviction prohibited
- Penalties
- Tenant may recover actual damages, court costs, and attorney fees for retaliatory conduct or self-help eviction
- Self Help Prohibited
- Yes — lockouts and utility shutoffs to force eviction are illegal statewide
- Chicago R L T O
- Chicago RLTO provides enhanced anti-harassment and anti-retaliation remedies
Applicable Statutes
Retaliatory eviction: landlord may not retaliate against tenant who has complained to government authorities about the condition of the premises.
765 ILCS 735/1
Prohibition on self-help eviction: landlord may not use self-help measures including lock-outs or utility shutoffs to evict a tenant.
Legal Aid Resources
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Not Legal Advice. This site provides general educational information only — not legal counsel. Laws vary by location. Consult a qualified attorney for advice on your specific situation.