Illinois Landlords - New Lock & Key Requirements

UPDATED 1/2012

A new provision in the Landlord and Tenant Act was proposed by the Illinois legislature, and has passed both Houses.  The bill was sent to the Governor for signature.  Once he signs, it will become law and go into effect as of January 1, 2012. THIS BILL HAS BEEN SIGNED INTO LAW AND IS NOW IN EFFECT!

The law would require landlords to “change or re-key” locks of rental property after a renter moves out if the new renter has a written lease agreement. If the landlord doesn’t do this, the landlord is liable for any damages for theft that occur. 

The law would exempt (1) apartment buildings with four units or less if the owner occupies one of the units, and (2) dwelling spaces where the rented room is in a private home also occupied by the owner.  Also, the provisions would not apply if the lessee has the right to change or rekey the dwelling unit lock pursuant to a written lease agreement.

Finally, the law only applies to counties in Illinois with a population of 3,000,000 or greater.  Therefore, the law really only applies to Cook County landlords.