Pass-Through Charges: Arlington Heights vs Chicago
How do pass-through charges rules compare between Arlington Heights, IL and Chicago, IL?
Arlington Heights and Chicago have similar restriction levels.
Arlington Heights, IL
Cook County
Cook County RTLO restricts what charges a landlord may pass through to tenants beyond rent. Late fees are capped, utility billing must be transparent, and undisclosed surcharges or junk fees are unenforceable against tenants.
View full Arlington Heights rules →Chicago, IL
Cook County
When a Chicago landlord master-meters a building and bills utilities back to tenants, MCC 5-12-100 requires written disclosure of the formula, supporting bills on request, and bans markups beyond actual cost. Hidden pass-throughs are RLTO violations.
View full Chicago rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington Heights | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Late fee cap | $10 plus 5% over $500 | - |
| Utility markup | Prohibited | - |
| Disclosure rule | Written, pre-signing | - |
| Rent control | Preempted by Illinois | - |
| Remedy | Refund plus damages | - |
| Code | - | MCC 5-12-100 |
| Disclosure required | - | Written, before lease |
| Markup | - | Banned above actual cost |
| Sub-metering | - | ICC Part 415 rules |
| Bill copies | - | Within 10 business days |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington Heights FAQ
Can my landlord add a junk fee mid-lease?
No. Any charge not disclosed in writing before lease signing is unenforceable under RTLO. The tenant may refuse and recover any amounts already paid plus attorney fees.
Are utility submetering charges legal?
Yes if disclosed and limited to actual cost. Markups, administrative surcharges beyond reasonable billing cost, or undisclosed methods violate RTLO and are recoverable by the tenant.
Chicago FAQ
Can my landlord charge a flat utility fee?
Only if disclosed in writing before signing and not exceeding actual building cost. Tenants may request the master bill at any time under MCC 5-12-100.
What about valet trash or amenity fees?
Lease pass-throughs must be itemized in writing. Surprise charges added mid-lease are unenforceable and may support an RLTO retaliation or good-faith claim.
Compare other topics
See how Arlington Heights and Chicago compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool