What fees can an Illinois landlord charge, and where must they be listed?
Quick answer
Illinois landlords must list every non-optional fee on the first page of the lease, or the tenant does not have to pay it (765 ILCS 705/35, Public Act 104-0479). Eleven fees are banned, including application fees over $50 and renewal fees. Tenants can sue. It takes effect January 1, 2027 (HB 5234, Public Act 104-0514).
Not legal advice.
Start date: January 1, 2027. The original Act text said July 1, 2026, but HB 5234 (Public Act 104-0514), signed and effective June 26, 2026, changed it to January 1, 2027.
Key facts and official sources
| Item | What the law says | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Law | 765 ILCS 705/35, added by Public Act 104-0479 (HB 3564) | Official source |
| Applies to | Residential leases entered into after January 1, 2027 (start date set by HB 5234, Public Act 104-0514); owner-occupied buildings of 6 units or fewer exempt | Official source |
| First page | Every non-optional fee must be on the first page of the lease (705/35(b)) | Official source |
| Banned fees | Application fees over $50 (unless actual third-party check costs more), duplicate screening, renewal, pre-order eviction fees, after-hours maintenance, walk-through and others (705/35(c)(1)-(11)) | Official source |
| Remedy | Private lawsuits: injunctive relief, monetary relief, attorney's fees | Official source |
What to do now
- Move every required fee onto page one of your lease template.
- Remove the 11 banned fees.
- Update listings to show required fees and whether utilities are included.
- Check Chicago and other local rules, which can be stricter.
Want it done in an afternoon? The Illinois rental fee transparency kit turns these steps into fill-in templates, a checklist and a tracker, with the official sources quoted. One-time payment, instant download.
FAQ
How much can an Illinois landlord charge for a rental application?
No more than $50, including background checks. A landlord can pass on a higher third-party check cost only if it really costs more, the landlord pays it upfront and bills the applicant with receipts within 14 days (765 ILCS 705/35(c)(1)).
Are move-in or move-out walk-through fees legal in Illinois?
No. A fee or fine for an in-person walk-through at move-in and move-out is on the banned list (765 ILCS 705/35(c)(11)).
When does the Illinois rental fee law start?
January 1, 2027. HB 5234 (Public Act 104-0514), signed and effective June 26, 2026, moved the start date of Public Act 104-0479 (HB 3564) from July 1, 2026 to January 1, 2027. The law applies to residential leases entered into after that date.
Can I charge more than $50 for an application?
Only for an actual third-party background check that costs more than $50 (765 ILCS 705/35(c)(1)).
Which fees are banned?
Application fees over $50, duplicate screening fees, renewal or modification fees, eviction notice or filing fees before an eviction order, after-hours maintenance fees, certain pest abatement fees, walk-through fees and others listed in 765 ILCS 705/35(c)(1)-(11).
What happens if I break it?
Anyone alleging a violation can sue; the court may order injunctive relief, monetary relief and attorney's fees. A fee not listed on page one cannot be charged to the tenant.
Is this legal advice?
No. General information only.
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