As a landlord in Chicago and the suburbs, there are several laws and regulations that you must follow. Some of the most important laws that landlords must comply with in Chicago include:

1. Chicago Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance (RLTO): This ordinance sets out the rights and responsibilities of landlords and tenants in Chicago. It covers topics such as security deposits, rent increases, eviction procedures, and maintenance and repair responsibilities.

2. Cook County RTLO: The Cook County RTLO provides renters' rights and landlord protections to Cook County suburban residents.

3. Security Deposit Return Ordinance: This ordinance requires landlords to return a tenant's security deposit within 45 days of the lease termination or provide a written explanation for why the deposit is being withheld.

4. Fair Housing Ordinance: This ordinance prohibits discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, and other protected categories in housing.

5. Building Code: Landlords must comply with the Chicago Building Code, which sets out requirements for building safety, maintenance, and occupancy.

6. Lead-Based Paint Disclosure: Landlords must disclose any known lead-based paint hazards in rental properties built before 1978 and provide tenants with an informational pamphlet.

7. Bed Bug Ordinance: Landlords are required to take measures to prevent and eradicate bed bugs in rental properties.

8. Crime-Free Housing Ordinance: In the suburbs, Landlords must participate in the Crime-Free Housing Program, which requires background checks for tenants and allows for eviction of tenants engaged in criminal activity on the property.

Failure to comply with these laws and regulations can result in legal action against landlords, including fines and penalties. Therefore, it is important for landlords in Chicago to familiarize themselves with the applicable laws and ensure that they are following all legal requirements.

For more detailed information you can check our Legal Learning Center. 

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