Cook County RTLO and the Illinois Security Deposit Return Act govern deposit handling for suburban Cook rentals: written itemization of deductions, return within statutory deadlines, and interest on deposits held over six months for larger buildings.
Under the Cook County RTLO and Illinois Security Deposit Return Act (765 ILCS 710), landlords must return deposits within 30 to 45 days of move-out, with a written itemized statement and paid receipts for any deductions. The Illinois Security Deposit Interest Act (765 ILCS 715) requires landlords of buildings with 25 or more units to pay annual interest on deposits held over six months. Deposits must be held in Illinois federally insured accounts. RTLO doubles tenant remedies: actual damages plus twice the wrongfully withheld amount, attorney fees, and court costs. Chicago is excluded; the county ordinance covers suburban Cook.
Wrongfully withholding deposit, missing itemization deadline, or failing to pay required interest exposes landlords to tenant claims for double the withheld amount plus reasonable attorney fees.
See how Evanston's security deposit rules rules stack up against other locations.
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