Chicago Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance (RLTO)

In the Windy City, the legal rights and responsibilities of landlords and tenants are neatly outlined in the Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance (RLTO). This ordinance, approved in 1986 and amended over the years, serves a dual purpose: to protect and promote the public health, safety, and welfare of Chicago residents, while also encouraging landlords and tenants to maintain and improve the quality of housing citywide1.

Here are some key points covered by the RLTO:

Tenant Responsibilities: As a tenant, you’re expected to keep your rental unit in good condition, pay rent on time, and not disturb your neighbors excessively.
Landlord Duties: Landlords must provide safe and habitable housing, respect tenants’ privacy, and maintain the property.
Security Deposits: The ordinance specifies rules regarding security deposits and prepaid rent.
Right of Access: Landlords have the right to access the property for specific reasons (like repairs), but they must follow proper procedures.
Retaliatory Conduct: Landlords cannot retaliate against tenants for exercising their rights under the ordinance.
Remember, the RLTO doesn’t apply to all rental properties. It excludes units in owner-occupied buildings with six units or fewer, most hotel and motel units, dormitories, shelters, and non-residential rentals. But for most Chicago renters, it’s a crucial guide to navigate their housing journey.

And hey, if you’re curious, you can find the complete RLTO ordinance here.

Indiana Renter’s Rights
Now, let’s hop over to the Hoosier State! Indiana has its own set of rules governing landlord-tenant relationships. Here’s a snapshot:

Property Maintenance: Tenants are expected to keep the property clean and in good repair.
Timely Rent Payment: Paying rent on time is a fundamental obligation.
Minor Repairs: Tenants may need to handle small repairs, like maintaining smoke detectors or the air conditioning system.
Neighborly Behavior: Disturbing other tenants and neighbors is a no-no.
The Indiana Office of Housing & Urban Development (HUD) provides resources for renters, including dispute forms, tenant rights, landlord obligations, and legal assistance. If you ever need guidance, check out their website.