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.
Under the Cook County RTLO, late fees are capped at $10 per month for the first $500 of monthly rent plus 5% per month on amounts above $500. Landlords may bill tenants for utilities only if the lease discloses the method, and submetered or RUBS charges must reflect actual cost without markup. Application fees, lease-renewal fees, and similar surcharges are enforceable only if disclosed in writing before lease signing. Move-in inspection and disclosure rules limit damage charges to documented amounts. The ordinance does not regulate rent itself, since Illinois preempts local rent control statewide.
Charging undisclosed fees, excessive late fees, or marked-up utility passthroughs subjects landlords to refund of the improper charge, plus tenant damages and attorney fees under RTLO enforcement.
See how Evanston's pass-through charges rules stack up against other locations.
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