How long does a Chicago landlord have to return a security deposit?

For rentals covered by the Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance, the City of Chicago says the landlord must return the deposit and any required interest, minus unpaid rent and allowed damage deductions, within 45 days of the date you move out.

Is a move-in fee the same as a security deposit?

No. A move-in fee is typically a one-time charge and may not be refundable. Ask the property which it charges and get the terms in writing.

Renter guide

Fees, parking, pet costs and move-in expenses to ask about

By Jared Conrady, Licensed Leasing Consultant · Reviewed November 8, 2026

The short answer

Ask every property for a written list of required monthly fees, parking and pet costs, and every charge due at move-in. For rentals covered by Chicago's Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance, the city sets rules for security deposits, including a signed receipt and return within 45 days after you move out, minus allowed deductions.

Monthly charges to ask about

Is there a required monthly fee on top of rent? What does it cover?
Which utilities are included, and which will I pay directly?
Is parking available, what does it cost, and is there a waitlist?
What is pet rent, and is it charged per pet?
Are any of these charges expected to change during the lease?

Pet policies

Pet policies are building-specific. Ask about the number of pets allowed, any size, weight or breed limits, and whether there's a one-time pet fee, a pet deposit, monthly pet rent, or a combination. Get the policy in writing before you apply.

Deposits and move-in fees

Some buildings ask for a security deposit, some charge a one-time move-in fee, and some use both. Ask which applies, the amount, and whether any part is refundable.

For rentals covered by the Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance, the City of Chicago says a landlord must give a signed receipt for a security deposit, must pay interest each year on deposits held more than six months, must provide an itemized statement of damages within 30 days of move-out before deducting for damages, and must return the deposit and any required interest, minus allowed deductions, within 45 days of move-out. The interest rate is set each year by the City Comptroller.

Moving day costs

Does the building require an elevator reservation or a moving deposit?
Do movers need to provide a certificate of insurance?
Are there move-in hours or days when moves aren't allowed?

Next-step checklist

Written list of required monthly fees
Parking cost and availability
Pet policy, fees and limits in writing
Deposit or move-in fee amount, and what's refundable
Moving day rules and any moving deposit

Common questions

How long does a Chicago landlord have to return a security deposit?: For rentals covered by the Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance, the City of Chicago says the landlord must return the deposit and any required interest, minus unpaid rent and allowed damage deductions, within 45 days of the date you move out.
Is a move-in fee the same as a security deposit?: No. A move-in fee is typically a one-time charge and may not be refundable. Ask the property which it charges and get the terms in writing.

Sources

Security Deposit Interest Rates (opens in a new tab)City of Chicago Department of Housing · checked November 8, 2026
Residential Landlord Tenant Ordinance Summary (opens in a new tab)City of Chicago Department of Housing · checked November 8, 2026

General information only, not legal advice. Rules can change; check the official source for current details.