If you’re searching for a Chicago tenants’ rights lawyer, you’re likely dealing with a serious issue—maybe your landlord won’t return your security deposit, you need to end your lease early, or you’ve been injured because of unsafe conditions. These problems aren’t just frustrating—they often involve legal violations, and you may be entitled to relief.
At Brabender Law, we’ve advised hundreds of Chicago tenants, in cases involving stolen deposits, early lease terminations, and injuries caused by landlord negligence. We also regularly assist renters dealing with unlivable conditions, ignored repair requests, and other violations of their housing rights. Our goal is to help tenants understand and enforce their rights under the RLTO, as well as under state, federal, and local law.
Understanding Your Rights as a Tenant in Chicago
Chicago tenants have some of the strongest housing protections in the country, thanks largely to the Chicago Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance (RLTO). This local law outlines a wide range of rights for renters, from requiring landlords to make timely repairs to setting strict rules about how security deposits must be handled. These protections are in addition to those found in Illinois state law and, in some cases, federal housing regulations.
Most residential tenants in Chicago are covered by the RLTO, but there are exceptions—such as small owner-occupied buildings with six units or fewer. If you’re not sure whether the law applies to your unit, a tenants’ rights lawyer can help you sort that out.
Learn more: Chicago Security Deposit Law | Breaking a Lease in Chicago | Chicago Landlord-Tenant Ordinance | Tenants’ Rights in Chicago Overview | Suing Your Landlord for Personal Injury
Common Legal Issues Tenants Face
Most renters who contact a Chicago tenants’ rights lawyer are facing legal violations that affect their safety, money, or ability to remain in their home. Here are the most common problems we help with:
Security Deposit Disputes
We’ve recovered over $1 million for Chicago tenants in security deposit cases. Landlords must return deposits within strict timeframes and provide documentation for any deductions. Failure to do so may entitle you to double damages and attorney’s fees under the RLTO.
Learn more about Chicago deposit law
Lease Terminations
Tenants often assume they’re trapped in a lease—but that’s not always true. We’ve helped clients legally terminate leases due to:
- Job relocations
- Home purchase
- Financial hardship
- Habitability problems
- Illegal lease terms
Personal Injury Due to Unsafe Conditions
Unsafe property conditions can cause serious injuries. Tenants have successfully recovered compensation for:
- Collapsing ceilings
- Broken staircases
- Electrical hazards
- Bedbug and rodent bites
You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Habitability and Repair Problems
Lack of heat, sewage backups, leaks, and pest infestations may violate your right to a habitable home. You may have options like withholding rent, deducting repair costs, or terminating your lease.
Chicago habitability laws explained
Harassment and Unlawful Entry
Chicago landlords must give 48 hours’ notice before entering a unit (except emergencies). Repeated, unauthorized entry or intimidation may rise to illegal harassment. You also have protection from retaliation for asserting your rights.
Illegal Lease Clauses and Fees
Even if you signed it, your lease may contain unenforceable terms, like:
- Excessive late fees
- Repair waivers
- Jury trial waivers
- Contradictions with RLTO rules
We help identify these issues and fight back.
Utility Shutoffs and Overcharges
Utilities are essential—and landlords are required to maintain access and bill legally. We’ve helped tenants address:
- Shared meter overcharges
- Common area utility charges
- Utility shutoffs as retaliation
- Refusal to restore services
- Unlawful third party utility allocation
How a Chicago Tenants’ Rights Lawyer Can Help
Most tenant-landlord disputes don’t start as lawsuits—but when landlords ignore the law, legal action may be necessary. A tenants’ rights lawyer can level the playing field and guide you through your options.
We help tenants:
- Evaluate potential claims under the RLTO, Illinois law, or local codes
- Terminate leases legally
- Recover security deposits (including double damages when applicable)
- Pursue injury claims from unsafe conditions
- Negotiate early resolutions
- File lawsuits or join class actions when necessary
Transparent Pricing Options
We offer several pricing models based on your case type:
| Situation | Pricing Model |
|---|---|
| Deposit, injury, or class action | Contingency (no fee unless you recover money) |
| Lease break, lease review, strategy call-coaching | Flat fee |
| Complex, ongoing disputes | Hourly, based on your needs |
You’ll receive a quote after your free intake call based on the specifics of your case.
Why Clients Choose Brabender Law
Tenants come to us with real problems—stolen deposits, unsafe conditions, unlawful entry, and leases that violate the RLTO. As a Chicago tenants’ rights lawyer, Andy Brabender has helped hundreds of renters across the city take back control.
We don’t just explain your rights—we help you enforce them.
- Over $1 million recovered in deposit claims
- Strategic advice and practical solutions
- Contingency, flat fee, and hourly options
- Coaching available if full representation isn’t realistic
What to Expect
Step 1: Free Intake Call
Speak with a team member who will listen to your concerns and explain your legal options.
Step 2: Strategy Session or Representation Offer
Based on your case, we may recommend:
- A paid strategy session
- Contingency-based representation
- A flat fee or hourly agreement
Step 3: Take Action with Confidence
Whether we represent you or coach you through self-help options, you’ll understand your rights and next steps.
Request your free intake call now by filling out our quick form to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the RLTO the same for all Chicago renters?
No. Small, owner-occupied buildings (6 units or fewer) may be exempt. We can help determine if the RLTO applies.
What if I can’t afford a lawyer?
If your case involves a deposit, injury, or class action, we often work on contingency. We also offer paid strategy sessions with legal coaching that are within reach of many tenants.
Can I break my lease if the apartment is in bad shape?
Often yes—but it depends on the conditions and documentation. Legal advice is critical before acting.
How long do I have to take legal action?
It really varies by the type of claim being brought. Some claims expire within 2 years of when the claim arose.
Brabender Law: Standing Up for Chicago Renters
At Brabender Law, we’re committed to helping Chicago tenants assert their rights and protect their future. Whether you need help breaking a lease, recovering a security deposit, or responding to a landlord’s misconduct, we’re here to guide you.
Don’t wait. Contact us today to schedule your free intake and find out how we can help.