Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Illinois

There is not a statewide requirement, but there may be local requirements. More relevant, perhaps, is that it is usually a matter covered in the contract and done so because the lender will require the inspection upon a determination that the property has a well or septic. A closing attorney familiar with local practice should be advising you and protecting your interests, including clear title.

Mr. Repay is correct with one exception that unfortunately doesn't apply. Illinois does have a law that requires sellers to disclose whether various systems in a residential property suffer from any "major defects" but if the property has been vacant for more than a year then the seller is not required to complete those questions. (Illinois Residential Real Estate Disclosure Law). And even if sellers do have to complete the form, "wise" buyers still hire inspectors as their primary resource.