Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Illinois

Stuck by lease in an abusive environment

I recently moved out of a house that I shared with 2 males. One of them and I had been involved for a short time. All three of us are on the lease. After ending the relationship with the one roommate, I began to be harassed on a daily basis ultimately leading to an act of violence and my roommate's arrest. At this point, I contacted the landlord to tell him that I could not stay because I was not safe, but I could not afford to pay 2 rents. I asked if he would make an arrangement with me to pay whatever rent built up while searching for a subleassor in installments. He said he was unwilling to help...that I was responsible for rent and if I didn't pay on time, whoever was in the house would be evicted. Is there any legal recourse I have? I have documentation of my roommate's arrest because of violent behavior, and numerouse witnesses to the mental abuse caused on a daily basis. I am looking for a subleassor, but they have changed the locks and phone so I am unable to be as effective in my search. The remaining roommates refuse to look for someone themselves as they see that as my responsibility.


Asked on 8/08/01, 2:35 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Charles Dobra Charles Wm. Dobra, Ltd.

Re: Stuck by lease in an abusive environment

Legally, you could be stuck for the rent, not to say that you MIGHT have a constructive eviction defense because of the lock changing. This will teach you not to get caught in a shack-up relationship again. On a personal level, always have somewhere of your own to escape to.

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Answered on 8/09/01, 7:31 am


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