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Does My Landlord Have to Fix My Heat in Illinois?

Renters in Illinois have the right to a livable home, which includes working heat in the winter.


No matter where you live in Illinois, your landlord is 100% responsible for fixing your heat. And they’re required to do it fast—generally within a few days—or you can contact the local authorities for backup.

Are there exact temperature requirements in Illinois?

Every landlord in the state of Illinois is required by law to provide tenants with a unit that is “habitable.” To be considered habitable, a rental must meet the requirements laid out by the local building code—things like running water, electricity, and, of course, heat. Since Illinois gets so cold in the winter, most cities (including Chicago) actually include exact temperature requirements in their property maintenance codes. Most city websites feature this information so you don’t have to comb through the law yourself.

What should I do if the heat is broken in my apartment?

You should start by calling, texting, or emailing your landlord so they’re aware of the issue right away. But it’s a good idea to follow up with a letter (sent by registered or certified mail) that proves you alerted them when you did.

Your written communication with your landlord should include documentation of the problem, including temperature readings (if possible), noting the time and date. Also mention what you’re planning to do about the heat if they don’t make the repair. Illinois law empowers tenants to repair and deduct or withhold rent until a problem is fixed.

How long does my landlord have to fix the heat?

Lack of heat is considered an emergency in Illinois, meaning your landlord has to respond to your complaint within 24 hours of receiving it. In less serious cases, your landlord has two weeks at the most to make repairs.

What if my landlord won’t fix the heat?

Since it can get dangerously cold during Illinois winters, government officials take this issue very seriously. Most cities have specific departments you can call if your landlord hasn’t fixed your heat within a day or two. The websites that feature local building codes often tell you how to report violations, as well—like this website for the town of Normal, Illinois, or this one for Evanston.

If you can’t find any specific information for your city or town, Illinois law also empowers you to repair and deduct or withhold rent until a problem is fixed. And if the situation has become really bad, you can even consider constructive eviction.

The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice.