Relocation Assistance: Arlington Heights vs Chicago
How do relocation assistance rules compare between Arlington Heights, IL and Chicago, IL?
Arlington Heights has fewer restrictions than Chicago.
Arlington Heights, IL
Cook County
Suburban Cook County landlords ending tenancy without tenant fault under the Residential Tenant Landlord Ordinance must provide written notice and, in qualifying conversions or demolitions, a relocation payment to displaced tenants.
View full Arlington Heights rules →Chicago, IL
Cook County
Chicago tenants forced to vacate due to building code violations or condo conversion are entitled to relocation assistance. The RLTO and Condominium Ordinance require payments around $10,600 per unit, escalating annually, when landlords cause displacement.
View full Chicago rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington Heights | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Code | Cook County Code Ch. 42 art VII | - |
| Coverage | Suburban Cook only | - |
| Notice range | 60 to 120 days | - |
| Enhanced payment | Elderly and disabled tenants | - |
| Damages cap | Two months rent plus fees | - |
| RLTO | - | MCC 5-12-110(g) |
| Condo conversion | - | MCC 13-72-100 |
| Payment | - | About $10,600 per unit |
| Notice required | - | 120 days minimum |
| Enforced by | - | Department of Housing |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington Heights FAQ
Does this apply in Chicago?
No. Chicago has its own Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance with separate relocation rules. The Cook County RTLO covers suburban municipalities and unincorporated areas only.
Is owner move-in covered?
Owner move-in is a recognized no-fault ground requiring written notice, but does not automatically trigger a relocation payment unless combined with conversion or substantial rehabilitation under the conversion ordinance.
Chicago FAQ
Does Chicago pay relocation if my building is condemned?
The City may provide emergency relocation through the Department of Family and Support Services, but the landlord remains liable under MCC 5-12-110 for damages and tenant relocation expenses caused by code violations.
What if my landlord converts to condos?
MCC 13-72-100 requires 120-day notice, a 30-day first refusal right, and roughly $10,600 relocation pay (annually adjusted) per displaced rental household.
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