1. Lead-Based Paint Disclosure
If this property was built before 1978, the following applies:
- Month2Month will disclose any known lead-based paint or lead-based paint hazards in the property prior to lease execution.
- Month2Month will provide all available records and reports pertaining to lead-based paint in the property.
- The tenant will receive a copy of the EPA-approved pamphlet "Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home."
For more information: National Lead Information Center at 1-800-424-LEAD (5323) or www.epa.gov/lead.
2. Security Deposit
Deposit Limits
Illinois law does not impose a statewide cap on security deposit amounts. However, any deposit collected is subject to the Illinois Security Deposit Return Act (765 ILCS 710/), which governs the holding, use, and return of security deposits.
Interest on Deposits
Pursuant to 765 ILCS 715/, a landlord of a property containing 25 or more units must pay interest on security deposits held for more than six months. The interest rate is set annually by the Illinois State Treasurer. Month2Month will comply with applicable interest payment requirements. Interest will be paid annually or upon termination of the lease, either by direct payment or as a credit toward rent.
Permitted Uses
Your security deposit may be used for: unpaid rent; repair of damages caused by the tenant beyond ordinary wear and tear; and other costs as permitted under the lease agreement and Illinois law.
Return of Deposit
Within 30 days after you move out, Month2Month will return your security deposit or provide an itemized statement of damages. If the cost of repairs exceeds the security deposit, Month2Month will provide the itemized statement within 30 days, and if estimated costs are used, actual costs and receipts will be provided within 30 days after completion of repairs (not to exceed 45 days from move-out).
Move-Out Procedures
- Provide proper written notice of intent to vacate as required by your lease.
- Return all keys and access devices to Month2Month.
- Leave the property in clean condition, removing all personal belongings and trash.
- Provide a forwarding address in writing for return of your deposit.
Disputes
If you dispute any deduction, contact Month2Month in writing. If the dispute cannot be resolved, you may file a claim in small claims court or circuit court. Under Illinois law, if a landlord fails to return the deposit or provide an itemized statement within the required timeframe, the tenant may be entitled to damages of two times the deposit amount plus attorney's fees.
3. Landlord Identity and Address Disclosure
Pursuant to 765 ILCS 735/, the landlord or any person authorized to manage the premises or to act as agent of the landlord must disclose to the tenant in writing at or before the commencement of the tenancy:
- The name and address of the owner of the premises or a person authorized to act on behalf of the owner for the purposes of receiving notices and demands.
- The name and address of the person authorized to manage the premises.
- The name and address of an agent of the landlord authorized to receive service of process and other legal notices on behalf of the landlord.
Your lease agreement contains the specific owner information, property manager contact information, emergency maintenance contact, and the person authorized to receive service of process for your property. Month2Month serves as the property manager for all properties in our portfolio.
General Contact: [email protected]
4. Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
All Month2Month rental properties in Illinois are equipped with operable smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors installed in compliance with Illinois law. Smoke detectors are installed within 15 feet of every room used for sleeping purposes, on every level of the dwelling, and in basements. Carbon monoxide detectors are installed within 15 feet of every room used for sleeping purposes in any dwelling that has a fossil-fuel-burning heater or appliance, a fireplace, or an attached garage.
Tenant Responsibilities
- Do not disable, disconnect, cover, or tamper with any smoke alarm or carbon monoxide detector. Tampering with these devices is a violation of Illinois law and may result in a fine.
- Test all devices monthly by pressing the test button.
- Report immediately if any device is chirping, not functioning, or missing.
- Do not remove batteries.
- If you hear the carbon monoxide alarm sound continuously, evacuate immediately and call 911.
Month2Month is responsible for ensuring all devices are operable at the beginning of each tenancy and for providing and installing replacement batteries or units as needed upon notification by the tenant.
5. Radon Disclosure
Pursuant to the Illinois Radon Awareness Act (420 ILCS 44/), the following disclosure is provided:
If radon testing has been performed at the property and results are available, this information will be disclosed in your lease agreement or provided separately. If the property has a radon mitigation system installed, Month2Month will maintain the system in operating condition during your tenancy.
Tenant Rights
- You have the right to request information about any radon testing or mitigation performed at the property.
- You may conduct your own radon testing at your expense. Month2Month will cooperate with reasonable testing requests.
- If testing reveals elevated radon levels, notify Month2Month in writing so that mitigation options can be evaluated.
For more information: Illinois Emergency Management Agency Radon Program at 1-800-325-1245 or visit www.radon.illinois.gov.
6. Mold Disclosure
While Illinois does not have a specific mold disclosure statute, landlords are required to maintain rental properties in habitable condition under Illinois law. Mold can cause health problems, especially for people with allergies, asthma, or weakened immune systems. You have a right to know about mold in your rental unit and how to prevent it.
Month2Month is not aware of any mold in the rental property that poses a health threat at the time of your lease. If mold is discovered during your tenancy, Month2Month will take appropriate remediation action.
Tenant Responsibilities to Prevent Mold
- Ventilate your home: Open windows regularly, use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens, and ensure air circulation.
- Control moisture: Wipe up spills and leaks immediately, do not let water accumulate, and report any leaks or water damage to Month2Month immediately.
- Use heating and air conditioning: Maintain reasonable temperatures and use climate control systems to reduce humidity.
- Clean regularly: Regular cleaning prevents mold from establishing itself.
- Report problems immediately: If you see mold, smell musty odors, or notice water damage, report it to Month2Month right away.
7. Bed Bug Disclosure
While Illinois does not have a specific statewide bed bug disclosure statute (note: the City of Chicago has specific bed bug requirements under the RLTO), Month2Month provides this disclosure as best practice for all Illinois properties.
Identification
Bed bugs have six legs and flat bodies about 1/4 inch long, ranging from red-brown to copper colored. They do not fly but move quickly over surfaces. They hide in mattress seams, box springs, bed frames, headboards, furniture crevices, baseboards, and wall cracks. They feed on human blood at night.
Signs of Infestation
Look for small blood stains on sheets, dark spots (excrement) on mattresses or walls, shed skins, and a sweet musty odor. Bites may appear as red, itchy welts in a line or cluster, though some people do not react.
Prevention
- Inspect your mattress, box spring, and bed frame regularly.
- When traveling, inspect hotel rooms and luggage before returning home.
- Do not bring used mattresses or upholstered furniture into the home without thorough inspection.
- Reduce clutter to eliminate hiding places.
Month2Month has no knowledge of any bed bug infestation in your specific rental unit. If Month2Month becomes aware of bed bug infestation during your tenancy, you will be notified immediately and professional treatment will be arranged.
8. Domestic Violence Protections
Right to Terminate Lease Early
Pursuant to the Safe Homes Act (765 ILCS 750/), a tenant who is a victim of domestic violence, sexual violence, or stalking may terminate a rental agreement by providing written notice to the landlord along with supporting documentation. The notice must be provided at least 30 days before the desired termination date.
Supporting Documentation
The tenant must provide one of the following:
- A court order of protection (emergency, interim, or plenary)
- A record from a law enforcement agency indicating that the tenant is a victim
- A statement from a domestic violence service provider, sexual assault service provider, or healthcare professional
Right to Request Lock Changes
A tenant who is a victim may request that the landlord change the locks to the dwelling unit. Month2Month will change the locks within 48 hours of receiving a written request accompanied by qualifying documentation. The tenant shall not be charged for the lock change if an order of protection has been issued.
Protection from Eviction
A landlord may not evict, refuse to renew a lease, or retaliate against a tenant solely because the tenant or a member of the tenant's household is a victim of domestic violence, sexual violence, or stalking. An incident of domestic violence, sexual violence, or stalking against a tenant is not grounds for eviction.
Confidentiality
Month2Month will maintain the confidentiality of any information provided by a tenant who is a victim. Information will not be disclosed to third parties except as required by law.
Resources
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 (TTY: 1-800-787-3224)
- Illinois Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-877-863-6338
- National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673
- Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence: www.ilcadv.org
9. Energy Efficiency Disclosures
Month2Month is committed to providing energy-efficient rental properties. The following information is provided regarding energy efficiency at your property:
Energy Usage Information
- If available, information about the energy efficiency of major appliances (HVAC, water heater, refrigerator) will be provided upon request.
- Utility accounts and billing responsibility are specified in your lease agreement.
- If the property has been subject to an energy audit, results are available upon request.
Tenant Tips for Energy Efficiency
- Set thermostats to reasonable temperatures: 68°F in winter, 76°F in summer when occupied.
- Use programmable thermostats to reduce energy consumption when away.
- Keep windows and doors closed when heating or cooling systems are running.
- Report drafts, broken seals, or malfunctioning HVAC equipment to Month2Month promptly.
- Use energy-efficient lighting practices — turn off lights when leaving rooms.
For information about energy efficiency programs and assistance, contact the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity at www.illinois.gov/dceo or the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) at 1-877-411-9276.
10. Concession Disclosure
If Month2Month offers any rent concessions (such as a free month of rent, reduced rent for an initial period, or other financial incentives), the following applies:
- All concessions will be disclosed in writing in your lease agreement.
- The actual rental rate (before and after concession) will be clearly stated.
- The duration and terms of any concession will be specified.
- Upon renewal or extension, rent will be based on the non-concession rate unless a new concession is offered in writing.
If no concession has been offered, this section does not apply to your tenancy.
11. City of Chicago — RLTO Notice
- RLTO Summary: Landlords must provide tenants with a copy of the RLTO summary issued by the City of Chicago at or before the beginning of the tenancy.
- Security Deposit: Deposits must be held in a federally insured, interest-bearing account in an Illinois bank. The landlord must provide the tenant with the name and address of the financial institution and the amount of the deposit within 14 days. Interest must be paid annually.
- Move-In / Move-Out Checklist: The landlord must provide a written checklist at move-in describing the condition of the unit. The tenant must be given the opportunity to review and annotate the checklist.
- Late Fees: Late fees are capped and must comply with RLTO limits.
- Lock Changes: Additional lock-change rights apply for victims of domestic violence.
- Bed Bug Disclosure: Landlords must disclose any known bed bug infestations in the building within the past 120 days and provide the City of Chicago bed bug information brochure.
- Heating Requirements: Landlords must maintain minimum temperatures (68°F daytime, 66°F nighttime) from September 15 through June 1.
If your property is located in Chicago, additional Chicago RLTO disclosures will be provided separately.
For more information about the RLTO, visit the City of Chicago Department of Housing at www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/doh.html or call 312-742-HOME (4663).
12. Furnished Property Disclosure
All Month2Month rental properties are provided fully furnished. All furniture, appliances, fixtures, and household items in the property are the property of Month2Month or the property owner and are provided for your use during the term of your lease.
Your Responsibilities
- Maintain all furnished items in the same condition as received, allowing for ordinary wear and tear.
- Use all items for their intended purpose only.
- Do not remove any furnished items from the property.
- Report any damage to furnished items within 48 hours of discovery.
- Do not repair or replace items yourself without prior written approval.
Damage vs. Normal Wear and Tear
| Normal Wear and Tear (Not Chargeable) | Damage (Chargeable to Tenant) |
|---|---|
| Minor scuffs on furniture | Broken furniture legs, arms, or frames |
| Slight fading of upholstery | Stains, tears, or burns on upholstery |
| Minor mattress indentation from normal use | Mattress stains, tears, or structural damage |
| Light scratches on hard floors | Deep gouges, water damage, or burns on flooring |
| Normal appliance wear (cosmetic marks) | Appliance malfunction due to misuse or neglect |
| Gradual thinning of towels and linens | Bleach stains, tears, or missing linens |
| Normal dulling of kitchen knives | Missing, broken, or chipped dishes/cookware |
| Loose doorknobs from use | Holes in walls, broken blinds, damaged doors |
Replacement Responsibility
- Tenant-caused damage: Tenant is responsible for the cost of repair or replacement (at depreciated value) of items damaged beyond normal wear and tear. Costs may be deducted from the security deposit.
- Missing items: Tenant is responsible for full replacement cost.
- Normal wear items: Month2Month replaces items that reach end-of-life through normal use.
- Appliance malfunction: If an appliance fails due to normal use or age, Month2Month is responsible for repair or replacement.
Cleaning Standards
The property must be returned in the same level of cleanliness as at move-in. Maintain the kitchen, bathrooms, floors, furniture, and linens in clean condition throughout your tenancy. If professional cleaning is required beyond what is attributable to normal wear and tear, cleaning costs may be deducted from the security deposit.
Inventory
A detailed furniture and household inventory checklist will be provided at move-in. Month2Month will document the condition of all items through photography. You will receive a copy of the move-in condition report.
13. Tenant Rights and Responsibilities
Your Rights Under Illinois Law
- Habitable Housing: Your rental unit must meet basic health and safety standards, including weatherproofing, plumbing, heating, electricity, and freedom from vermin and mold. Illinois courts recognize an implied warranty of habitability.
- Privacy: Illinois law requires landlords to provide reasonable notice before entering your unit, except in emergencies. Your lease will specify the notice period (typically 24 hours). Entry must be at reasonable times and for lawful purposes only.
- Return of Security Deposit: Your deposit must be returned within 30 days after move-out (or 45 days if itemized repair costs are needed), with an itemized statement of any deductions. (765 ILCS 710/)
- Freedom from Discrimination: You cannot be discriminated against based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, familial status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, military status, unfavorable military discharge, order of protection status, or source of income. (775 ILCS 5/ — Illinois Human Rights Act)
- Freedom from Retaliation: Your landlord cannot retaliate against you (by raising rent, decreasing services, or threatening eviction) for exercising your legal rights, including reporting code violations. (765 ILCS 720/)
- Repairs and Maintenance: You have the right to request repairs for health and safety issues, and your landlord must respond within a reasonable time. If the landlord fails to make essential repairs, Illinois law may permit you to withhold rent or make repairs and deduct the cost under certain circumstances.
- Protection from Unlawful Eviction: Your landlord must follow proper legal procedures (the Illinois Eviction Act, 735 ILCS 5/9) and cannot use "self-help" eviction methods such as changing locks, removing doors, shutting off utilities, or removing personal property.
- Right to Organize: You have the right to organize or participate in a tenant organization without retaliation.
Your Responsibilities
- Pay rent in full and on time.
- Keep the unit clean and sanitary.
- Avoid damaging the property beyond normal wear and tear.
- Promptly report maintenance issues, leaks, mold, pests, or safety hazards.
- Allow reasonable access for repairs and inspections with proper notice.
- Comply with all lease terms including occupancy limits, pet policies, and use restrictions.
- Avoid creating nuisances or disturbing other residents.
- Provide proper notice before moving out and return the property in clean condition.
Resources
- Illinois Attorney General — Landlord/Tenant Rights: www.illinoisattorneygeneral.gov/rights/landlord_tenant.html
- Illinois Legal Aid Online: www.illinoislegalaid.org
- Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
- Illinois Department of Human Rights: 1-800-662-3942
- Fair Housing — HUD: 1-800-669-9777