In Illinois, a landlord must give a 120-day notice before selling the property. This notice period is applicable to all tenants irrespective of the lease agreement they have signed.
As a tenant, it can be frustrating to learn that your landlord is planning to sell the property you are renting. This not only makes you uncertain about your living situation but also creates a lot of stress. However, Illinois law provides certain rights to tenants in this situation.
Are you providing enough time for your tenant to make the necessary arrangements? Dive into this guide to stay informed and maintain a fair rental environment.

Understanding The Legal Framework

The Illinois Statute Governing Landlord-Tenant Relationships
When it comes to landlord-tenant relationships, Illinois is governed by the Illinois compiled statutes, specifically the laws relating to real property, known as the Landlord and tenant act.
This act outlines the respective rights and duties of both landlords and tenants in the state.
Definition Of A Landlord’S Right To Sell A Property
Landlords in Illinois have the right to sell their rental property at any time, as long as they comply with the requirements set forth in the Landlord and tenant act.
The Illinois Landlord’S Notice Requirements When Selling A Rental Property
In Illinois, landlords must provide tenants with written notice before selling their rental property.
The amount of notice required depends on the type of lease agreement in place. If the tenant has a month-to-month lease, the landlord must provide 30 days’ notice.
If the tenant has a year-long lease, the landlord must provide 60 days’ notice. The notice must include the date on which the tenant must vacate the property.
Tenant’S Rights In The Process
Tenants have rights when their landlord decides to sell their rental property. First, they have the right to continue to occupy the property until the end of the lease agreement.
If the tenant has a month-to-month lease, they have the right to receive their security deposit back within 30 days of vacating the property.
If the tenant has a year-long lease, they have the right to receive their security deposit back within 45 days of vacating the property.
Additionally, tenants have the right to sue their landlord for damages if they violate the landlord and tenant act during the sale process.
Overall, it’s crucial for both landlords and tenants to understand their legal obligations and rights in Illinois when it comes to selling a rental property.
By complying with the Illinois statute governing landlord-tenant relationships, both parties can ensure a smooth and fair transaction.
Notice Requirements For The Tenant

Requirement For The Landlord To Give Notice Of The Intended Sale
As per Illinois law, landlords are obligated to notify the tenant about the property’s sale.
The notification must be issued in writing to the tenant, state the intention to sell the property, and provide relevant details.
Notably, this applies regardless of whether the tenant is under a fixed-term lease or a month-to-month tenancy.
Different Types Of Notice Methods That Are Accepted
The notice methods legally acceptable in Illinois include personal delivery to the tenant, mailing the notice via certified mail, or leaving it at the property.
To avoid disputes, it’s preferable to send the notice via certified mail with a return receipt requested to confirm the tenant received it.
The Timeline For Providing Notice
To comply with Illinois law, landlords are required to issue the notice of the property’s sale at least 120 days before the end of the lease term or provide the tenant with written notice of the sale at least 60 days before the intended sale, whichever comes later.
Additionally, if the tenant is on a month-to-month tenancy, the landlord must serve a written notice at least 90 days before the intended sale.
The Potential Consequences If Notice Is Not Given Within The Required Time Frame
If a landlord fails to give the mandatory notice of the property’s sale, the tenant may encounter various problems.
For instance, if the sale goes through without notifying the tenant, the tenant might face an eviction, which would lead to negative credit ratings and difficulty finding future housing accommodation.
The tenant may also seek legal redress and possibly receive compensation for damages resulting from the landlord’s failure to give notice.
Therefore, it is crucial to adhere to the Illinois notice requirements for the tenant, protecting both the landlord’s and the tenant’s interests.
FAQs
What Notice Period Is Required For Landlords To Sell Property In Illinois?
Illinois law requires landlords to give tenants 120 days’ written notice before selling their rental property.
Does A Tenant Have Any Rights When The Landlord Decides To Sell The Property?
Yes, Illinois law requires landlords to provide written notice to tenants 120 days before selling their rental property.
Can A Landlord Terminate A Lease Early If They Want To Sell Their Property?
The landlord cannot terminate a lease early if they intend to sell the rental property in Illinois. The tenant has the right to continue their lease until it expires.
What Happens If The Tenant Refuses To Leave When The Property Is Sold?
If a tenant refuses to vacate the property after the sale, the new property owner must file for eviction in court to remove the tenant.
Conclusion
Unsure about selling your Illinois property? Don’t worry. Just remember, your tenants have rights too.
You need to provide them with a 30-day notice, ensuring their lives aren’t uprooted abruptly.
Navigating property sales with tenants can be easy when you respect their rights.
Reference
https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=2201&ChapterID=62