Landlord-Tenant Handbook - Local Law

Human Rights Code and Fair Housing

The rights of individuals within the protected classes of race, sex, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, veteran status, sexual orientation, age, marital status, familial status, disability, source of income, gender identity, gender expression, military discharge status, housing status, order of protection status or the actual or perceived association with such a person in the purchasing, leasing, securing a loan, renting or occupying housing or other real estate are protected under Chapter 13 of the Village Code. For properties containing four or more units, the Code is enforced by the Community Relations Department at Village Hall, 123 Madison St.

In addition to the discrimination provisions of the Human Rights Code, local law also requires tenants to complete a written application for any apartment in building of four or more rental units, a written lease between the tenant and landlord, and a security deposit of not less than one month’s rent.

Filing Complaints

Any person otherwise qualified who is denied or discriminated against or suspects denial or discrimination in these processes should immediately contact the Community Relations Department for more information, conciliation, or to file a formal, written complaint. Individuals also may file written, formal complaints with the Cook County Human Rights Commission or Illinois Department of Human Rights.

Protecting Tenants' Rights

A property owner or manager cannot simply make an accusation as a reason to terminate a lease.

Required Training for Property Owners & Managers

To ensure rental property owners and managers fully understand fair housing, participation in an annual landlord management training session is required. Attendance is part of the Village’s existing rental property licensing requirement for all rental properties, including buildings with four or more units, condominiums and single-family and two- and three-flat homes.

Safe Homes Act

The Safe Homes Act is an Illinois law that allows victims of domestic or sexual violence to leave their rental housing early, prior to the end of their lease, in order to protect their physical safety and emotional well-being. Managers of rental units are required to comply with this law. Should circumstances related to this law arise, contact the Community Relations Department for guidance.

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Landlord-Tenant Handbook - Local Law

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