Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in Illinois

Before signing my lease, I specified a couple things that had to be fixed to my satisfaction before moving in. Of these items, the most important point (the bathroom ceiling that was crumbling) was neglected. Now there is plaster everywhere and water is leaking in and dripping onto our floor, appliances and US! I fear for my safety in the shower!

Is there anything I can do to get these repairs fixed on my building's rental management company's dime? Or, a way my rent could get refunded back to me for the reneged contract?


Asked on 10/19/11, 10:18 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Stephen Messutta

Did you notify the management company when you moved in? And if so what was their response? If you had these items written into your lease, the first thing to do is to notify the management company that the items are not complete, because having moved in you may have waived your rights. Why? Because most standard leases say that taking possession is an acknowledgement that the premises were in good order. So quickly talk to them AND if they won't acknowledge these things still need to be addressed and WHEN they will, have an attorney look at how you had these items specified and how to put together an appropriate notice. If they were NOT written into the lease, the attorney can help you with the Chicago Residential Landlord & Tenant Ordinance, if it applies, and how the ordinance can be used to help you get them fixed.

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Answered on 10/19/11, 7:16 pm


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