How to Prepare Your Chicago Rental for Spring Leasing Season

How to Prepare Your Chicago Rental for Spring Leasing Season

Spring leasing season is the most important time of year for Chicago landlords and property owners. Demand begins to rise and peaks through late Spring and summer, and ultimately sets the tone for your property’s performance for the rest of the year. 

With so much demand in the Chicago rental market, your listing needs to be well-positioned from day one. If your unit isn’t ready now, you’re already behind, but there’s still time to use our pre-leasing checklist.

Here’s how to prepare your Chicago rental for the Spring leasing season. 

1. Start Early, Timing Matters More Than You Think

In Chicago, the best tenants begin their search 60–90 days before their move date. That means March and early April are critical for May, June, and July leases. Being on top of your potential turnover dates is crucial. If your tenant is not renewing, you should begin pre-leasing, while the unit is still occupied, whenever possible.

Waiting until your unit is vacant to start marketing:

• Increases downtime

• Limits your applicant pool

• Forces pricing concessions

PRG Management’s rental property management team removes the uncertainty from this process. We proactively prepare for turnovers well in advance, often before the typical 60–90 day window, so that when it’s time to list, your unit and marketing strategy are fully ready to attract the right tenants quickly.

2. Get Pricing Right from Day One

The Chicago rental market is competitive, and pricing incorrectly (especially too high) can cost you weeks of vacancy. Overpricing in Spring pushes tenants to better-positioned listings, leaving you with a smaller and lower-quality tenant pool when you finally adjust your pricing strategy.

Before listing your rental, evaluate:

• Comparable rentals in your neighborhood

• Current market velocity (how fast units are leasing)

• Seasonal demand shifts

PRG Management uses up-to-date leasing data and local market insight to position your Chicago rental property correctly from day one. By setting a strategic price upfront, we help minimize vacancy times, attract stronger applicants, and ultimately maximize your rental income.

3. Complete Maintenance and Turnover Prep Early

Rental unit conditions matter more than ever during peak leasing season, so proactive turnover preparation not only improves first impressions but also reduces time on market. Tenants are seeing multiple options in a short timeframe, so small details like lighting, fixtures, common area upkeep, and general cleanliness will directly impact how quickly your unit is leased.

Make sure your rental unit is:

• Professionally cleaned

• Freshly painted (if needed)

• Fully operational (fixtures, HVAC, plumbing, appliances)

• Free of deferred maintenance issues

At PRG Management, we coordinate maintenance, cleaning, and vendor scheduling ahead of your listing date to ensure your unit shows at its best from day one. By eliminating last-minute repairs and delays, we help you attract stronger applicants and secure a lease faster.

4. Invest in High-Quality Marketing

First impressions are everything. Most renters will see your rental online and make a judgment before ever stepping inside. Well-marketed rental units lease faster and often at stronger rental rates, but what does a “well-marketed” rental unit look like?

At a minimum, your listing should include:

• Professional photography (never use phone photos)

• Clear, accurate unit details

• Strong, straightforward description

• Distribution across major rental platforms

PRG Management takes your marketing a step further by leveraging our partnership with agents at our sister company, Pearson Realty Group. Their on-the-ground market expertise, combined with our management approach, ensures your property gets maximum exposure and attention from qualified renters. Our coordinated effort helps position your rental to lease quickly, and at the strongest rate the market will support.

5. Create a Clear Leasing Strategy

Chicago Spring leasing is fast-paced, requiring more than just throwing a listing up and waiting for the perfect tenant. Without a defined process, you risk delays, missed inquiries, and ultimately lost tenants. Tenants are often applying to multiple units, so speed and organization win deals.

Your leasing process should include:

• Fast response times to inquiries

• Flexible showing availability

• Pre-screening criteria

• A streamlined application process

Through our relationship with Pearson Realty Group, PRG Management approaches leasing from a broader market perspective, ensuring your property is positioned competitively within the current demand landscape. Our strategic coordination helps drive better decision-making, stronger positioning, and ultimately more consistent leasing results.

6. Understand Chicago Rental Requirements

Chicago is one of the most regulated rental markets in the country, so understanding the Chicago and Illinois rental laws and compliance requirements is essential. Missing key requirements can delay your lease or, even worse, open yourself up to legal exposure.

Make sure you are aligned with:

• Chicago RLTO requirements

• Proper lease disclosures

• Safety and habitability standards

• Updated 2026 lease requirements and documentation

Navigating these regulations on your own can be time-consuming and complex. That’s where working with a Chicago property management company like PRG Management makes a meaningful difference. Our team stays up to date on all local laws and compliance changes so you can lease with confidence while minimizing risk and avoiding costly mistakes.

7. Consider Professional Property Management

Preparing for Spring leasing isn’t about listing a unit and hoping for the best. It requires a proven strategy that maximizes the exposure of your rental property, which most property owners and landlords simply don’t have the time or mental bandwidth for.

At PRG Management, our Chicago property management and leasing services are designed to:

• Reduce vacancy time

• Optimize rental pricing

• Handle marketing and showings

• Ensure compliance with Chicago and Illinois regulations

• Deliver a seamless leasing process from start to finish

Connect with a Chicago Leasing Expert

PRG Management provides full-service Chicago property management and leasing services for landlords, property owners, and investors to position properties ahead of peak demand, so they lease faster, attract stronger tenants, and minimize vacancy.

If you’re looking for support leasing your Chicago rental property, contact our Chicago property management team today.

Chicago Spring Property Maintenance Checklist: 2026 Update

2026 Spring Property Maintenance Checklist for Chicago Landlords and Property Owners

Chicago winters are hard on buildings. By the time Spring arrives, your property has endured months of freeze-thaw cycles, salt, ice, and temperature swings that stress everything from your roof to your foundation. As a property owner in Chicagoland, you need to know what items need to be evaluated every season. That’s why PRG Management compiled a Spring cleaning checklist with Chicago property management tips to help you protect your property.

A regular Chicago rental property maintenance checklist should assess the damage, address deferred maintenance, and get ahead of any issues before they become expensive repairs. Whether you manage one unit, a portfolio of properties, or live in an HOA community, this checklist covers what to inspect, expect, service, and schedule every Spring in Chicagoland.

Exterior and Structural

Chicago's freeze-thaw cycles are among the most damaging weather patterns for residential and rental properties. A thorough exterior inspection every Spring is the single most effective way to catch structural issues before they compound into major capital expenses. Make sure your Spring property maintenance checklist includes:

• Inspect the roof for missing, cracked, or lifted shingles and any signs of winter damage around flashing and gutters

• Clean and inspect gutters and downspouts, clear debris, and confirm water is draining away from the foundation

• Check the foundation for new cracks, settling, or signs of water intrusion after the thaw

• Inspect exterior siding, brick, and masonry for cracks, spalling, or damage from freeze-thaw cycles

• Examine caulking and weatherstripping around windows and doors, and replace them anywhere seals have deteriorated

• Assess the driveway, walkways, and parking areas for frost heave, cracks, or trip hazards

• Inspect decks, porches, and balconies for loose boards, deteriorating railings, or structural concerns

Landscaping and Grounds

First impressions matter for leasing efforts, tenant retention, and overall property value. Chicago landlords and property owners should know that well-maintained grounds also reduce liability exposure from uneven walkways or overgrown trees. These actions both protect your legal exposure and increase the curb appeal of your property:

• Remove winter debris, salt, sand, dead branches, and accumulated debris from common areas and landscaping beds

• Inspect trees and shrubs for winter damage and schedule trimming for any branches near the building or power lines

• Restart irrigation systems and inspect for leaks, broken heads, or damaged lines from the freeze

• Refresh mulch in landscaping beds to retain moisture and prevent weed growth through the season

• Inspect and repair fencing for any panels, posts, or hardware damaged over winter

HVAC and Mechanical Systems

In Chicago property management, mechanical system failures are one of the most common and preventable maintenance expenses. Servicing HVAC and mechanical systems each Spring extends the equipment life, keeps utility costs down, and ensures your property stays compliant with Chicago's rental habitability requirements. To “un-winterize” your property, be sure to:

• Schedule air conditioning service before peak cooling season, replace filters, clean coils, and confirm refrigerant levels

• Test the HVAC system in cooling mode and address any unusual sounds, airflow issues, or performance concerns

• Inspect laundry machines and clean dryer vents, a common fire hazard that's easy to overlook

• Check water heater operation and inspect for corrosion, leaks, or sediment buildup

• Test sump pump operation before the Spring rain season, confirm the float switch activates, and the discharge line is clear

Interior and Unit Condition

For occupied rental units, Spring is the ideal time to conduct an interior walkthrough as part of regular Chicago property maintenance. Catching small issues early, such as a slow leak, a drafty window, or a deteriorating seal, protects both the property and the landlord-tenant relationship. Your Spring property upkeep checklist should remind you to:

• Test all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries, required under Chicago's municipal code

• Inspect windows and doors for drafts, damaged locks, or hardware that needs adjustment after winter settling

• Check for water stains on ceilings and walls that may indicate a slow roof leak or plumbing issue that worsened over winter

• Inspect plumbing under sinks and around appliances for slow leaks or signs of moisture damage

• Test GFCI outlets in bathrooms, kitchens, and any exterior outlets

Safety and Compliance

Safety and compliance items are easy to defer until something goes wrong. Chicago landlords are subject to specific safety and maintenance requirements under the Chicago Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance (RLTO). Staying current on unit specific and common area safety equipment, lighting, and access hardware will protect you from any legal issues. A proper spring property maintenance checklist will have you:

• Review fire extinguisher service dates and replace or recharge any that have expired

• Inspect common area lighting, exterior fixtures, stairwells, and parking areas, and replace any burned out or damaged fixtures

• Confirm that unit entry locks and building access hardware are functioning properly

• Review your insurance policy and confirm coverage is current and adequate for the property

A Note for Chicago Landlords

If you manage multiple properties or simply don't have the bandwidth to coordinate vendors and track maintenance schedules yourself, a full-service Chicago property management company handles this for you, proactively and on a defined schedule.

At PRG Management, seasonal maintenance coordination is a core part of how we protect our owners' investments. We work with a vetted network of trusted vendors to ensure both preventative maintenance and emergency issues are handled promptly. If you're a Chicago landlord, property owner, or HOA board member looking for a more hands-off approach to property ownership, we'd love to connect.

Request a proposal or fill out the form below to connect with a Chicago property manager.

PRG Management in an award winning property management company in Chicago, providing full-service property management for individual landlords, multi-unit owners, and investment property portfolios across the great Chicagoland area.

What Full-Service Rental Property Management in Chicago Includes

The Chicago Landlord's Guide to Full-Service Property Management

The claim of “Full-service rental property management" gets thrown around a lot, but ask two different companies what that includes, and you'll get two different answers.

For Chicago landlords and rental property owners, these details matter. The difference between a rental property management company that truly handles everything and one that halfway delivers is the difference between passive income and a second job.

Here's what a full-service rental property manager should actually cover.

Tenant Screening and Leasing

Finding a qualified tenant is the most consequential thing a property manager does. One bad placement can cost thousands in lost rent, legal fees, and turnover. In any rental market, speed matters; vacancies mean lost revenue. A good property manager has the systems and the reach to place a qualified tenant fast.

Full-service rental management means the entire leasing process is handled: preparing the unit, marketing the unit, fielding inquiries, scheduling showings, running background and credit checks, verifying income and rental history, and executing the lease. You shouldn't be involved in any of it unless you want to be.

PRG Management works hand-in-hand with our sister company, Pearson Realty Group, to handle all leasing efforts. By working with a Chicago real estate brokerage using shared systems within the same organization, we fill vacancies with qualified tenants quickly.

What to confirm: Does the management fee include leasing, or is it a separate charge? Some companies quote a low monthly fee but charge a full month's rent every time they place a tenant. 

Rent Collection and Delinquency Management

Rent collection sounds simple until a tenant pays late, pays partially, or stops paying altogether. Full-service management means rent is collected on a defined schedule, disbursed to you on time, and tracked with clean records, and when something goes wrong, your manager handles it. Late payment follow-ups, formal notices, and eviction proceedings, all in compliance with Illinois landlord-tenant law.

You should never be the one calling a tenant about unpaid rent. That's what you're paying a manager for.

What to confirm: How are late payments handled and on what timeline? Does the management fee cover eviction coordination, or is that billed separately? When are owner disbursements sent each month?

Maintenance and Repairs

Preventative maintenance and general upkeep of a property is where you’ll find lower-quality property management companies cutting corners, and where landlords see the most expenses

Full-service maintenance management means a 24/7 emergency line, a clear process for routine repair requests, a vetted network of reliable Chicago vendors, and transparent communication about costs before work is approved. It also means preventive maintenance on a defined schedule, not just reacting when something breaks.

For Chicago rental properties specifically, seasonal maintenance is non-negotiable. Winterization, HVAC servicing, and spring inspections should be calendared and handled without you needing to ask.

PRG Management works with a trusted network of internal employees and outside vendors/contractors to ensure repairs stay on schedule and emergencies are addressed promptly.

What to confirm: Does the company markup vendor invoices? Who approves repairs above a certain cost threshold? Is there a 24/7 emergency line, and who actually answers it?

Financial Reporting

You should always know exactly how your property is performing. Full-service management includes monthly owner statements that clearly show income, expenses, and net distributions delivered on schedule, not when you chase them down.

A solid reporting package also includes year-end statements that make tax preparation straightforward, and an owner portal where you can access records anytime without waiting on your manager. If you can't tell at a glance whether your property made money last month, that's a reporting problem.

PRG Management provides financial reporting through our owner portal and app, providing you with real-time updates on your rental investment performance.

What to confirm: Are monthly statements delivered on a set date or only on request? Does the reporting package include year-end summaries for tax purposes? Is there an owner portal with on-demand access to records?

Owner and Tenant Portal Access

A modern full-service manager provides a dedicated online portal for both you and your tenants. For owners, that means real-time access to financial statements, maintenance updates, and lease documents without waiting for your manager to pull records. For tenants, it means online rent payment and maintenance requests, which means fewer missed payments and earlier issue reporting.

If a management company is still running on email threads and phone calls alone, that's a big red flag.

PRG Management provides an owner and tenant portal accessible through a web portal and mobile app. Our newest portal features include enhanced request tracking, deeper customizations for financial reporting, AI-powered automation tools, and the ability to communicate through texting.

What to confirm: Is the portal included in the management fee or an add-on? Can owners access historical records, not just current statements? Do tenants have the ability to pay rent and submit maintenance requests directly through the platform?

What Full-Service Property Management Doesn't Mean

Full-service property management in Chicago doesn't mean unlimited scope with no boundaries. It means everything within the defined management agreement is handled professionally and proactively, without pulling you in.

You still own the property, and you still call the shots. Major capital decisions, significant repairs above an agreed threshold, and ownership-level choices remain yours. A good manager brings you the information and a recommendation, then respects your decision as an owner.

Chicago's rental market has its own complexities and compliance regulations that landlords need to know. The Chicago Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance (RLTO), strict security deposit rules, required lease disclosures, and building-specific code requirements need to be followed carefully to avoid any legal exposure. 

Non-compliance isn't just inconvenient; it can expose you to significant legal liability. Chicago apartment management companies should know this landscape and operate efficiently within these rules.

PRG Management's Full-Service Management Approach

At PRG Management, full-service means exactly that. Our Chicago rental property management services are designed to remove the day-to-day frustrations for owners. Tenant screening and leasing, rent collection and delinquency management, maintenance coordination and vendor oversight, and financial reporting are all handled by a Chicago property management company that knows the market and takes ownership of your investment. 

If you're a Chicago landlord tired of managing your manager, we'd love to talk. Request a proposal or connect using the form below.

Chicago’s 2026 Landlord Compliance Requirements

What Are Chicago’s 2026 Landlord Compliance Requirements?

Owning rental property in Chicago requires strict adherence to ever-changing city and state regulations. In 2026, regulation enforcement remains strong, tenant protections are robust, and compliance errors can result in significant financial penalties.

For many independent landlords and investor-owners, staying current with Chicago’s evolving regulatory environment has become increasingly complex. Structured oversight and proactive compliance management are essential to protecting both income and asset value.

This guide outlines the key requirements every Chicago landlord must follow, the risks of falling short, and how PRG Management’s services can help fill the gaps in your Chicago property management needs.

What Laws Govern Chicago Landlords in 2026?

Chicago landlords are governed by overlapping city and Illinois statutes. Together, these laws regulate lease terms, disclosures, heating standards, deposits, notice periods, and tenant protections.

Primary regulations include:

• Chicago Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance (RLTO)

• Chicago Heat Ordinance

• Illinois Security Deposit Interest Act

• Illinois Human Rights Act (Fair Housing)

• Chicago Fair Notice Ordinance

• City of Chicago Rental Registration requirements

What Disclosures Are Required for Chicago Rentals?

Chicago landlords must provide required disclosures at the start of tenancy, and any missing disclosures can trigger statutory penalties under the RLTO.

Mandatory disclosures include:

• RLTO Summary

• Security deposit receipt

• Lead-based paint disclosure (if applicable)

• Bed bug prevention brochure

• Shared utility disclosure (if applicable)

• Heat cost disclosure (if tenant pays utilities)

What Are Chicago’s Security Deposit Rules?

Security deposit compliance is one of the most litigated landlord issues in Chicago. Some landlords choose to charge a non-refundable move-in fee instead of a security deposit. If you do collect security deposits, some important things to note:

Deposit return timeline:

• 45 days to return the full deposit

• 30 days to provide itemized deductions

Interest requirement:
Landlords must pay annual interest on qualifying security deposits at the city’s published rate.

Penalty for non-compliance:
Landlords may owe double the deposit plus attorney’s fees.

What Are Chicago’s Heating Requirements?

During heating season (September 15 – June 1), landlords must maintain:

• 68°F between 8:30 AM and 10:30 PM

• 66°F between 10:30 PM and 8:30 AM

Failure to comply can result in city violations, fines, and tenant remedies.

Are Chicago Rental Properties Required to Be Registered?

Yes. All rental properties must be registered annually with the City of Chicago. Failure to register may result in fines and can complicate legal proceedings such as eviction filings.

What Happens If a Chicago Landlord Fails to Comply?

In Chicago, even minor compliance errors can quickly become expensive problems. Non-compliance can result in:

• City fines

• Tenant lawsuits

• Double deposit penalties

• Attorney’s fees awards

• Court delays

• City fines

2026 Chicago Landlord Compliance Checklist

The number of regulations can feel daunting, but being proactive with compliance reduces headaches, legal risk, and protects rental income. Chicago & Illinois landlords should review the following annually:

• Updated lease compliant with current RLTO

• All required disclosures attached

• Proper deposit handling procedures

• Interest paid (if applicable)

• Heating systems inspected before September

• Property registered with the city

• Fair housing screening standards documented

• Maintenance response procedures tracked

If you’re unsure whether your lease documents, deposit procedures, or operational systems fully align with current Chicago regulations, we are here to help. PRG Management works with Chicago landlords to ensure leases, disclosures, deposit handling, maintenance documentation, and other requirements are properly implemented and documented, reducing exposure and improving operational efficiency. Explore our Chicagoland rental management services.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicago Landlord Compliance (2026)

What are the Chicago landlord compliance requirements in 2026?
Chicago landlords must comply with the RLTO, provide required disclosures, follow strict security deposit rules, maintain minimum heating standards, register rental properties annually, and follow Illinois fair housing laws.

How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Chicago?
A landlord has 45 days to return the full security deposit and 30 days to provide an itemized statement of damages if deductions are made.

Does a Chicago landlord have to pay interest on a security deposit?
Yes. Landlords must pay annual interest on qualifying security deposits at the rate set by the City of Chicago.

What temperature must landlords maintain during Chicago winters?
Landlords must maintain 68°F during the day and 66°F overnight during the Chicago heating season (September 15 – June 1).

Are Chicago landlords required to register rental properties?
Yes. Rental properties must be registered annually with the City of Chicago.

What is the penalty for violating Chicago’s RLTO?
Penalties may include double the security deposit, attorney’s fees, court costs, and city fines.

Owners who are proactive in reviewing leases, disclosures, deposits, heating systems, and registration requirements reduce exposure and protect long-term asset value. But for those who prefer to focus on portfolio growth rather than day-to-day oversight, professional oversight is often the most cost-effective safeguard a landlord can implement.

PRG Management provides structured rental oversight designed specifically for Chicago’s regulatory environment. Our services include:

• RLTO-compliant lease drafting and required disclosures

• Security deposit handling and interest compliance

• Rent collection and owner financial reporting

• Fair housing–compliant tenant screening

• Maintenance coordination and heating season oversight

• Rental registration and compliance monitoring

• Eviction coordination and legal process support

If you would like a professional review of your rental investment, PRG Management offers complimentary management proposals and consultations for Chicago property owners seeking clarity and oversight. Click here or fill out the form below to be connected to a Chicago property manager.

A New & Improved Way to Manage Your Property

Dear Valued Clients and Customers,

PRG Management is excited to announce an upgrade to our existing online portal over the next few weeks. In addition to the features which you’ve grown accustomed to, some of the improvements include:

• Enhanced tools for tracking the status of requests with integrated communication

• Improved workflows to now allow for communication via text messaging

• AI-powered automation tools that help streamline routine tasks

• Enhanced Self-Service to complete the entire leasing or move-in process online, including screening, document signing, and easily pay applicable fees

• More customizable financial reporting & dashboards

• A superior and more user-friendly mobile app experience 

Getting Started: 

Existing clients should be receiving a welcome email through our new portal in the coming days. For security purposes, any auto-pay settings will need to be set up through the new login. 

If you were previously paying through your bank, and not online, either via a check or Billpay, you will not need to update anything, as our mailing address remains the same.

IMPORTANT: Action Required!

For any Residents/Tenants: Any auto-pay settings must be re-established in the new portal. Existing Portal Access will be disabled on Friday, 2/27/2026. For Any Owners: No action is required at this time.

Log in to the new online portal and download the new app here.

3/1 Moving Forward:

All historical payments and financial data will be fully transferred to the new portal. Payment can be made via all of the same options: 

• Online ACH (no additional fee as usual)

• Online Credit/Debit (fee included)

• Check delivered to our office

Please Note:

If you have questions or concerns, please contact us at hello@prg-management.com or 312-600-8896.

Please look out for future communication regarding these new and exciting features, as well as instructions on how to optimize your experience with the new portal in the coming weeks.

Sincerely,

PRG Management

New 2026 Chicago Lease

2026 Chicago Residential Lease

Every year, the City of Chicago and the Chicago Association of Realtors (CAR) release a new lease, and the 2026 Chicago Lease is now available.

If you need support with leasing, tenant screening, or managing your leases or property, please visit our Rental Management Services page for more information. As always, we recommend an additional addendum to further protect our clients.

For current clients to receive a free digital copy of the 2026 Chicago Lease, please complete the form below. Our team will email you a version to download for the transaction.

Looking for reliable Chicago property management resources? PRG Management provides up-to-date leasing tools, tenant management, and expert guidance for both landlords and investors. As a trusted rental management company in Chicago, we’re committed to making the leasing process as smooth and transparent as possible. Whether you manage a single rental unit or a portfolio of commercial properties, our team is here to support you with local expertise and responsive service. If you’re looking for property management in Chicago, IL, then contact us today to learn more about our Chicago property management services.

Illinois HB3564 Updates: Urge Your Senator To Vote No

The controversial Illinois HB3564 is back in motion, and this time, the stakes are higher than ever. According to recent legislative updates and alerts from industry groups, the State Senate may take up the bill as early as next Tuesday, October 28th, during the General Assembly’s fall veto session.

If passed, this IL HB3546 could significantly impact how landlords, property managers, and housing providers operate across the state.

What Illinois HB3564 Proposes

Originally introduced in early 2025, HB3564 (known as the “Rental Fee Transparency and Fairness Act” ) includes several sweeping changes to the rental market:

• Caps or eliminates many common fees, including move-in and application fees.

• Limits security deposits to one month’s rent.

• Requires installment payment options for allowed fees.

• Mandates detailed disclosure of all costs, including utilities, in the lease.

• Restricts the ability to collect both a security deposit and a separate move-in fee.

While supporters frame it as a measure to increase transparency and affordability for tenants, many property owners argue that the bill dramatically limits their ability to manage properties, cover real costs, and maintain housing stock. While many support different restrictions and regulations in the market, this is seen as unnecessary red tape for everyone involved.

Illinois HB3546: What’s Changed

Here are key updates and changes in the legislative process for HB3564 since May 2025:

• On May 13, Senate Committee Amendment No. 2 was filed by Sen. Michael Simmons and referred to assignments.

• On May 28-29, the bill was placed on the Senate Calendar for 2nd and 3rd readings, and the Senate Committee Amendment No. 3 was adopted.

• On May 30-31, Senate Floor Amendments No. 4 and No. 5 were filed and referred to assignments.

• On June 2, the Senate Committee Amendment No. 2 and other procedural actions were logged, indicating the bill remains in committee/assignments.

• On October 14, the bill was placed on the Senate Calendar for the 3rd Reading after being marked “Engrossed”.

• On October 22, Senate Floor Amendment No. 6 was Referred to Assignments.

Why It Matters Now

The bill had previously stalled in the Senate over the summer, but new amendments have revived it. With the Illinois General Assembly already facing intense pressure to address budgetary and infrastructure issues during the short veto session, this vote could move quickly and with minimal debate.

If passed, these changes would directly affect property management operations, cash flow, leasing structures, and tenant screening practices statewide. That’s why we are urging all property owners and industry professionals to urge their Senators to vote NO on HB3546.

What Industry Leaders Are Saying

Organizations like Neighborhood Building Owners Alliance and Chicago brokerages such as Pearson Realty Group, have issued urgent calls to action, warning that IL HB3564 would:

• Undermine the ability of small and mid-sized owners to maintain properties.

• Limit financial flexibility to cover turnover and maintenance costs.

• Create compliance burdens with rigid fee structures and disclosures.

How You Can Take Action

Illinois lawmakers need to hear from housing providers before this bill reaches the Senate floor. Contact your State Senator today and urge them to vote NO on HB3564.

The Neighborhood Building Owners Alliance has provided an easy-to-use form that will send a pre-written opposition email to your State Senator. We recommend that you personalize your message and share how this legislation would impact your properties, operations, or neighborhood housing stock. Fill out the form now and find your State Senator here.

Chicago Heat Ordinance: What Landlords and Tenants Need to Know

Chicago winters are long and unforgiving, which is why the city enforces strict heating requirements through the Chicago Heat Ordinance. This law protects residents from unsafe living conditions while holding landlords accountable for maintaining adequate heat. Both landlords and tenants benefit from understanding the rules: landlords avoid steep fines and disputes, while tenants know their rights and what to do if those rights aren’t met.

What Landlords Need to Know

If you own or manage property in Chicago, compliance with the Chicago Heat Ordinance is non-negotiable. The Chicago Heat Ordinance rules set forth are clear:

• Heat season: lasts from September 15 until June 1.

• Daytime requirement (8:30 am – 10:30 pm): At least 68°F

• Overnight requirement (10:30 pm – 8:30 am): At least 66°F

• Habitable Spaces: in houses, apartments, hotel rooms, and indoor workspaces, heat be provided in all habitable spaces, toilet rooms, and bathrooms

• How to Provide Heat: Use permanent systems such as boilers, furnaces, radiators, or heat pumps. Portable heaters, ovens, and fireplaces are not acceptable for compliance.

• Two-Pipe Systems: Buildings with two-pipe heating systems may operate at a transitional minimum of 64°F during early fall and late spring as systems switch between heating and cooling.

The consequences for failing to provide heat are costly. Landlords may be fined $500 to $1,000 per day, per violation, and the city does not accept excuses for system breakdowns. Preventive maintenance and fast response times are essential.

Working with a professional Chicago property management company like PRG Management can help landlords stay ahead of inspections, schedule seasonal tune-ups, and avoid the stress of emergency repairs.

What Tenants Need to Know

For tenants, the heat ordinance provides a clear standard for comfort and safety. You are entitled to a unit that meets the city’s minimum temperature requirements throughout the entire heat season. If your apartment’s temperature falls below the mandated minimum, contact your landlord or property manager right away. If the issue isn’t resolved, call 3-1-1 to file a heat complaint, and a city inspector will investigate and, if necessary, issue violations and fines to the landlord.

Tenants should also remember:

• Heat must come from a permanent heating system, not space heaters, ovens, or fireplaces.

• Landlords are always responsible for providing heat; tenants cannot be required to supply it themselves.

• Indoor temperature is measured three feet above the floor and three feet from exterior walls when verifying compliance.

The Chicago Heat Ordinance: Simplified

The Chicago Heat Ordinance creates a balance; landlords must maintain heat, and tenants must report issues promptly. The ultimate goal is the same for both sides: safe, comfortable, and livable housing during Chicago’s long winter. In its simplest terms, the most important things to remember for both parties are:

• Landlords must maintain required indoor temperatures or face costly penalties.

• Tenants have the right to safe, heated housing and clear pathways to report violations.

At PRG Management, we bridge that gap by ensuring landlords remain compliant while tenants feel supported. From proactive system checks and our 24/7 emergency hotline to transparent tenant communication, we make staying compliant with Chicago’s various tenant-related ordinances simple and effective.

If you’re a Chicago property owner who wants stress-free management or a tenant seeking a reliable property management company, PRG Management is here to help. Contact PRG Management today to keep your buildings compliant, your tenants comfortable, and your investment protected.

Take Action Against Illinois HB3564

TELL YOUR REPS: VOTE NO ON HB3564

A new Illinois housing bill, Illinois HB3564, is now under review in the Illinois Senate and could significantly change how rental housing is managed across Chicago and the state. While supporters promote the legislation as tenant-friendly, industry experts warn that it could lead to fewer available rental units, reduce protections for property owners, and make it harder for investors and landlords to offer quality rental housing in Illinois.

Read more and learn how to take action on PearsonRealtyGroup.com

HB3564: JULY 2025 UPDATE

The bill passed the Illinois Senate in May 2025 and is now awaiting final action from the governor’s office. If signed into law, it would impose new rental regulations, expand tenant rights, and potentially override some aspects of local landlord-tenant ordinances, creating various difficulties for property management companies in Chicago. The legislation has sparked strong reactions from both housing advocates and real estate professionals, with ongoing debate about its long-term impact on housing supply and affordability.

For Chicago property management companies, HB3564 represents a major shift in operational compliance and client guidance. Chicago property managers may need to adjust lease agreements, modify tenant screening procedures, and increase administrative oversight to stay in step with new state-level regulations. The bill also reinforces the growing importance of professional management in navigating legal complexity, especially for out-of-state owners and investors who rely on local Chicago property managers to protect their assets. As a leader in Chicago property management, we are ready to overcome any challenges this brings to the market.

New 2025 Chicago Lease

2025 Chicago Residential Lease

Every year the City of Chicago and the Chicago Association of Realtors (CAR) release a new lease, and the 2025 Chicago Lease is now available for current clients.

If you need support with leasing, tenant screening, or managing your leases or property, please visit our Rental Management Services page for more information. As always, we recommend an additional addendum to protect our clients further.

For current clients to receive a free digital copy of the 2025 Chicago Lease, please complete the form below and our team will email you a version to download for the transaction.

Looking for reliable Chicago property management resources? PRG Management provides up-to-date leasing tools, tenant management, and expert guidance for both landlords and investors. As a trusted rental management company in Chicago, we’re committed to making the leasing process as smooth and transparent as possible. Whether you manage a single rental unit or a portfolio of commercial properties, our team is here to support you with local expertise and responsive service. If you’re looking for property management in Chicago, IL, then contact us today to learn more about our Chicago property management services.