FAQ Topics
As a tenant, what are my rights?
The City is limited to the protection of your rights only as they relate to property maintenance. It is recommended, however, that you ask to see a copy of your landlord’s current rental license with the City to ensure that your rental property complies with rental standards. For other concerns such as payment of rent, security deposits, etc., please refer to your signed lease agreement as these are civil matters that may require consultation with a lawyer.
Please stop by, call or email our office with a description of the problem. If determined necessary, we will schedule a time when one of our inspectors can meet you at your residence to examine the possible violation. If a violation is found, your landlord will be issued a Notice of Ordinance Violation and be given a deadline by which the problem must be corrected.
What else should I know prior to signing a lease agreement?
In addition to asking to see a copy of the landlord’s current rental license with the City for the rental property, you should also learn as much as possible about the lease agreement process. Use online resources if necessary to inform yourself about the specifics to look out for in a rental dwelling, a lease and even about your landlord.
Additional FAQ Topics
To file a complaint, call (630) 293-2200 extension 131 or 141 or email CommunityDev@westchicago.org.