How much does it cost to break a lease in Illinois?

Attorney fees vary; the Illinois Tenant Union charges a minimum of $300 to assist in breaking a lease. The Metropolitan Tenants Organization offers some additional options. Renters can use the sample letter on the group’s Web site to give notice to their landlord.

How can I get out of my lease early in Illinois?

Normally, neither the tenant nor the landlord can change their mind and get out of the lease before it ends, unless the other side agrees. But both parties can agree to end the lease early by a written agreement. If no agreement is reached, the tenant must pay rent for the full lease term, even if they move out.

Is it expensive to terminate a lease?

In many cases, the lease may give the tenant the option to pay an “early termination fee.” If this is the case, tenants can expect to pay one to two months’ rent in order to exit the lease agreement.

What happens if I terminate my rental lease early?

Early termination of your lease without legal grounds may mean that you may need to pay full rent for the remaining months on your lease. You can also find yourself subject to legal action from your landlord, and/or receive a negative mark on your credit report.

Can a landlord terminate a lease early in Illinois?

Since state landlord-tenant laws vary, the following reasons may legally permit a tenant to terminate their tenancy early in other states but are not applicable in Illinois: Violation of the lease agreement.

How much does it cost to terminate a lease early?

It frees the tenant from being responsible for the remaining balance of the lease as well as gives you some cash to cover a few months of an empty unit while you search for a new renter. An early termination fee is typically two month’s worth of rent.

What happens if you break your lease in Illinois?

Breaking a lease for any of the above reasons or in any conditions not previously outlined can have tangible consequences for tenants. Illinois state law does require landlords to take reasonable steps to rerent their unit when a tenant breaks their lease.

When to give notice of termination of lease?

Rent payments due within 30 days of the notice still need to be paid in full, even if the tenant will not live in the apartment for the entire month. Use this form to notify your landlord repairs are needed. A program to help you give tenants notice that their lease agreement will be terminated.