Questions to ask before applying or signing a lease

Before you apply

• Is the specific apartment I toured or chose still available, and for which move-in date?
• What are the application requirements and fees, and are any refundable?
• Which documents will I need (for example ID, proof of income, references)?
• Is the quoted price tied to this apartment and lease length?
• Is there a holding deposit, and when is it refundable?

Before you sign

• Does the lease show the same rent, fees, lease dates and apartment number you were quoted?
• Are concession terms written into the lease or an addendum, including how and when they're applied?
• What happens if I need to end the lease early?
• What are the renewal terms, and when will I hear about renewal pricing?
• Which repairs and maintenance requests go where, and how?

What Chicago's rules say about notice

The City of Chicago's Residential Landlord Tenant Ordinance Summary must be attached to written rental agreements at initial offering and at renewal. Read it — it explains rights and responsibilities for both sides.

Under the city's Fair Notice rules, a landlord must give written notice before raising rent or not renewing: 30 days if you've lived in the apartment less than six months, 60 days for six months to three years, and 120 days for more than three years. The city notes these notice provisions apply to all residential units.

Common questions

How much notice must a Chicago landlord give before raising rent?

According to the City of Chicago, 30 days if you've lived there less than six months, 60 days for six months to three years, and 120 days for more than three years.

Should concessions be in the lease?

Yes. Ask for the concession amount, conditions and timing in the lease or a signed addendum so there's no confusion later.