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.

Illinois Senate Bill 1563: Squatter Relief for Property Owners, Landlords, & REO Professionals

Illinois Senate Bill 1563: Squatter Relief for Property Owners, Landlords, & REO Professionals

Illinois Senate Bill 1563, widely known as the “Squatter Bill”, has passed both houses and is awaiting Governor JB Pritzker’s approval. This bill is a pivotal shift in how unauthorized occupants, or “squatters,” are managed statewide. As housing challenges evolve statewide, IL SB 1563 addresses long-standing frustrations property owners have faced when dealing with individuals who exploit the legal gray areas to unlawfully occupy homes and rental properties, often without paying any rent.

For Chicago landlords, investors, REO managers, and property managers, this legislation marks a turning point in the rental market. It offers legal clarity while providing more enforcement power and quicker resolution timelines without navigating the often costly and time-consuming eviction courts. Understanding the specifics of IL SB 1563 and its practical applications will help you better protect your Illinois assets and bolster your long-term investment strategy.

What IL SB 1563 Fundamentally Changes

Senate Bill 1563 introduces long-awaited protections for property owners by clarifying the distinction between unlawful occupants (“squatters”) and lawful tenants. The bill reinforces already existing property rights without altering the judicial due process. It simply enables the enforcement of existing criminal laws in clearer, more actionable ways, like allowing police to act decisively when there’s no valid lease. The legislation:

• Affirms that the Illinois Eviction Article does not restrict police from removing criminal trespassers.

• Empowers law enforcement to take immediate action when property owners show legal ownership.

• Criminalizes the use of fraudulent documents or false identity to claim residence in a property.

How SB 1563 Works in Practice

For owners and property managers in Chicago, SB 1563 dramatically simplifies the squatter response process. This new legal path enables Chicago property management companies to expedite turnover processes, reduce vacancy time, and protect clients from losses resulting from adverse possession attempts, lease fraud, and unauthorized occupancy. IL SB 1563 provides a clearer legal process for resolving squatter incidents. These steps include:

1. Owner confirms legal control: typically with a deed, title, or other proof of ownership.

2. Police review on-site documentation: to verify the absence of a lawful tenancy or lease agreement.

3. Trespasser is removed: no civil eviction filing needed, minimizing delays and property damage risk.

4. Property is resecured and reoccupied: typically within days instead of months.

Updated Overview of the Law

IL SB 1563 primarily aims to clarify the existing ambiguities and gray areas in the current law to help restore enforcement authority to local municipalities. This legislative change doesn’t diminish tenant rights, but instead restores a balance by clarifying which situations are considered unlawful occupancy and legal residency. Giving property owners a stronger foundation to act quickly and lawfully while protecting their other tenants. Specifically:

• It updates language in Illinois’ Eviction Article to affirm that criminal trespass enforcement remains valid and enforceable, even if civil eviction is not yet underway.

• The bill targets individuals using forged leases, fraudulent documentation, or identity misrepresentation to delay removal or create confusion over tenancy.

• Supported by both Democratic and Republican lawmakers, the bill passed with overwhelming bipartisan support and now awaits Governor J.B. Pritzker’s expected signature.

IL SB 1563: What Are The Next Steps?

As of June 18th, Illinois SB 1563 has been sent to Gov. JB Pritzker for his approval, the last step in the legislative process. Although he has 60 calendar days to decide, political and real estate leaders in Springfield express strong confidence that Gov. Pritzker will sign the measure. His supporters cite direct engagement with his administration and broad bipartisan backing as clear indicators that the bill is likely to become law.

So if you are a property owner, landlord, or REO professional experiencing squatters in your Chicago investment property and are seeking to file an eviction, now is the time to prepare. IL SB 1563 gives Chicago property management companies like PRG Management the legal authority to act quickly and decisively, allowing the police can take immediate action once proof of ownership is provided, so squatter issues can be resolved almost immediately.

With the new legal framework from IL SB 1563, PRG Management’s experienced Chicago property managers are here to support landlords and property owners with any tenant-related issues affecting your cash flow. With over 2,800 units managed and $1B in assets under care, PRG Management provides customized Chicago property management solutions, including tenant management, compliance oversight, financial reporting, and much more. To talk to a property manager about how IL SB 1563 impacts your properties or tenants, contact PRG Management anytime. Our experienced Chicago property team is happy to answer any questions about your investment and provide a free proposal for services.

The Move-Out Procedure for Tenants in Chicago

The Ultimate Guide to a Smooth Move-Out Procedure for Tenants in Chicago

Moving out can be a stressful and overwhelming experience for tenants in Chicago. From packing up all your belongings to dealing with the logistics of the move, there are many tasks to manage. However, with the right knowledge and preparation, you can make the move-out procedure as smooth as possible.

In this guide, we will walk you through a step-by-step process to ensure a stress-free and organized move-out. From giving notice to your landlord to cleaning and repairs, we will cover everything you need to know to leave your rental property in good condition and receive your security deposit back.

Don't let the hassle of moving out weigh you down. Follow our ultimate guide to make your move-out experience in Chicago a breeze.

Understanding Your Lease Agreement and Move-Out Requirements

Before the move-out procedure for tenants starts, it’s important to review your lease agreement and understand the move-out requirements set by your landlord or property manager. The lease agreement will outline the notice period you need to give before moving out, any specific cleaning or repair obligations, and other important details.

It is crucial to abide by the terms of your lease agreement to avoid any financial disputes or penalties. Take the time to read through the documentation carefully and make note of any specific move-out procedures mentioned. For example, some buildings have specific timeframes and days of the week that allow moving in or out.

If you have any questions or concerns about the lease agreement or move-out requirements, don't hesitate to reach out to your landlord or property management company. Clear communication is key to ensuring a smooth move-out process.

Preparing for the Move-Out Process

Once you have a clear understanding of the lease agreement and move-out requirements, it's time to start preparing for the move itself. Some planning and organization will go a long way in making the entire move-out procedure less stressful.

Create a timeline and checklist to keep track of all the tasks you need to complete before the move-out date. This will help you stay organized and ensure you don't forget any smaller tasks that could fall by the wayside.

Start by decluttering and packing up your belongings. Sort through your items and decide what you want to keep, donate, or throw away. Group like belongings together by room, use, or how fragile they are to make the unpacking process easier as well.

Consider hiring professional movers if you have a lot of furniture or heavy items to transport. Shop for quotes and book the services well in advance to secure your preferred date and time, especially if you’re moving during a busy time of year.

Cleaning and Repairing the Rental Unit

Once everything is packed away and moved, if your lease agreement has cleaning requirements, now is the time to knock this task out. Your goal should be to leave the property in the same condition as when you moved in.

Start by thoroughly cleaning every room, including floors, walls, windows, and appliances. Check for any damages or repairs that need to be addressed. This includes fixing holes in the walls, repairing broken fixtures, and replacing any damaged items. If you are unsure about how to handle certain repairs, consult your landlord or property management company for guidance.

Keep in mind that failing to clean or repair the rental unit properly can result in deductions from your security deposit. Take the time to do a final walkthrough and address any issues before handing over the keys.

Addressing Security Deposit Issues

In Chicago, landlords are required to return the security deposit within 45 days of a tenant moving out. If there are any deductions from the deposit (like repairs), the landlord must provide a written itemized statement explaining the deductions.

Many landlords will forfeit this requirement and ask for an additional month of rent when moving in. In contrast to a security deposit, there is no expectation of receiving these funds back from your landlord or property manager.

However, if you did make a security deposit and you believe that the deductions are unfair or unjustified, you have the right to dispute them. Contact your landlord or property management company to discuss the deductions and provide any evidence or documentation to support your case.

Familiarize yourself with the local laws and regulations regarding security deposits to ensure you understand your rights as a tenant.

Forwarding Mail and Updating Address

An often neglected part of the move-out process, it is crucial to forward your mail and update your address. This will ensure that you continue to receive important mail and avoid any potential issues with your bills or subscriptions.

Contact your local post office or visit their website to set up a mail forwarding service. This will redirect your mail to your new address for a specified period. Update your address with any banks, credit card companies, utility providers, and other essential services to ensure a smooth transition. Be sure to check the little things like your monthly entertainment subscriptions to services (Spotify, Netflix, etc.) as well.

Canceling Utilities and Services

In addition to forwarding mail and updating your address, don't forget to cancel any utilities and services associated with your rental property. This includes electricity, gas, water, internet, and cable services.

Contact each utility provider to schedule the cancellation or change of service address. Settle any outstanding bills and inquire about any refunds or adjustments that may be due.

By canceling utilities and services promptly, you can avoid unnecessary charges and ensure a seamless transition to your new location.

Checklist For a Stress-Free Chicago Move-Out Experience

Moving out can be a stressful experience, but with the right approach, you can make it as smooth and hassle-free as possible. Here is a checklist to help you have a stress-free move-out experience in Chicago:

1. Start planning and preparing well in advance to avoid last-minute stress.

2. Keep a checklist and timeline to stay organized and ensure you don't miss any important tasks.

3. Declutter and pack up your belongings early to create a cleaner and more organized living space.

4. Hire professional movers or rent a moving truck if needed.

5. Clean and repair the rental unit thoroughly to avoid deductions from your security deposit.

6. Schedule the final walkthrough with your landlord and document the property's condition.

7. Address any security deposit issues promptly and dispute any unfair deductions.

8. Forward your mail and update your address with all relevant parties.

9. Cancel utilities and services associated with your rental property to avoid unnecessary charges.

10. Stay positive and remember that moving out is a fresh start and an opportunity for new beginnings.

The Ultimate Guide to a Smooth Move-Out Procedure for Tenants in Chicago

Following a proper move-out procedure is essential for all tenants in Chicago. By understanding your lease agreement, preparing for the move-out process, addressing security deposit issues, and taking care of other important tasks, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free move-out experience.

Remember to clearly communicate with your landlord or property management company, stay organized, and seek professional advice if necessary. If you follow our guide, you will be well-equipped to navigate the move-out process in Chicago and leave your rental property in good condition.

At PRG Management, we understand the unique potential challenges in dealing with tenant and unit turnover. If you find managing these aspects of your building overwhelming, PRG Management is here for you. Our dedicated Chicago property managers are experienced in dealing with all types of tenants and properties.

If you are a landlord or property owner who wants to reduce your daily stress while increasing your ROI you need to request a free proposal of management services today!

Now Managing: 4880 N Marine Drive │ Chicago Property Management

Recently PRG Management took over the management of this classic red brick, 120-unit lakefront building on N Marine Drive. Built in 1950, this building has stayed up to date with upgrades and amenities to keep this a well-sought-after building in the neighborhood. It features multiple unit layouts, in-unit washers & dryers, and assigned garage parking spots, so any family can find their home here. See more details on units and amenities.

Located in Chicago’s Margate Park neighborhood, residents are just steps away from a gorgeous lakeside stroll or experiencing all the excitement the North Side has to offer. Close to public transportation, boutique shopping, artisan dining, the famous Aragon Ballroom, and Chicago’s gorgeous lakefront parks are all within walking distance.

We are ecstatic about the opportunity to manage and provide the best possible Chicago property management services to 4880 N Marine Dr and its residents. PRG’s Chicago property managers are well-versed in the unique intricacies involved in both the day-to-day needs of clients and the long-term profitability of the building itself.

Are you frustrated with your current building's management? Had enough of your building not turning a profit? Tired of property managers who don’t respond for days? Well then, there’s no better time for change than the new year! Give us a call today and you’ll get your own FREE personalized Management Proposal.

How Your Rental Property Is Affected By Pets

Anyone that has a furry friend at home knows how big of a part they play in our daily lives by providing love, entertainment, companionship, and countless memories. According to a nationwide study from the American Veterinary Medical Association, a fair amount of people in the United States are pet owners. Nationally, 56% of people in the United States have at least one cat or dog in their homes, with Illinois coming in 48% of households with cats or dogs.

The owners of these furry friends know all too well the hurdles that come with apartment renting and cat/dog ownership. Pet owners that rent generally prioritize buildings and associations that accept their pets. This is the biggest factor in choosing a new place to live. When you do the simple math, it becomes very clear why as a property owner, it is more beneficial in the long run to accept pets in your building. However, what exactly should you weigh on when making the decision to accept or decline pets?

The benefits of allowing pets in rentals include:

• Larger Applicant Pool: this diversifies your potential renters with more applications to choose from

• Lower Vacancy Rates: stop revenue loss and achieve a higher profit margin with less vacancies

• Attracts Long-Term Tenants: secure quality residents that will occupy units for longer periods of time on average. Happy residents stay longer!

• Higher Profit: you can charge a higher monthly rent and/or charge a premium pet fee yielding higher profits with minimal effort

In contrast, some of the downsides of allowing pets in rentals include:

• Common Tenant Complaints: those without pets may be less sympathetic to excessive noise leading to more complaints

• Common Area Complaints: messes in hallways or elevators or barking at passerby residents can lead to a general degradation of the building's quality of life

• Potential Damage To Apartment: not just dogs, but most animals have the potential of causing damage to different aspects of the unit.

Our advice at the end of the day is to be flexible and be open to accepting tenants with pets. Don’t single out the possibility of pet rentals at your units when the benefits can greatly outweigh the costs. By accepting pets, you attract residents that are more likely to stay for longer periods of time which allows for more profit security in the long term. The downside to accepting pets is when you allow the wrong pets (or owners) in the unit by not properly screening them the potential for complaints and damages can increase. Every situation is different, and no dog, cat, or furry friend is the same - so take this advice on a case-by-case basis and do what’s most comfortable for you as a property owner.

If you feel as if you don’t have the manpower or resources to accept pets or manage your current units with pets then think about hiring a property management company to help. Take a look at our full list of property management services to see if we can help you today! Contact PRG Management today to get a FREE quote and learn more about the services we offer for owners like you!

How to Prepare a Rental Property for New Tenants

Even after the numerous tasks for listing a property have been completed there is still work to be done is order to be fully prepared for new tenants at your rental property. In order to properly welcome the new tenants there are a few things that should be considered.

The Search for a Tenants

First, screening the possible tenants. This can be a little awkward at times, but is extremely important because you want to find serious tenants that will not cause any issues with the property. The primary thing to do is to ask questions to determine how motivated the potential tenants are. People that are looking to move in the next few days or even the next day indicate that they are not good planners and are probably not the type of tenants you want. On the other hands, tenants that are looking to move in several months should also be avoided as they are not immediately motivated to begin renting. There is a sweet spot in between the distant future and the next day that you as the property manager need to determine. A good place to start to find that time frame is to check the potential tenants credit, background, and criminal records. No evictions, steady work, and a clean criminal record usually indicate a good tenant.

The next step after a tenant has been selected is to collect the first month’s rent upfront and a security deposit. From there the following measure is the leasing agreement. This is the best way to express rules for the property such as: whether or not smoking is okay, the amount of roommates that can be living there at any given time, or any specifics on how rent payments should be made.

Welcoming the Tenants

Once all the technical arrangements are made the final step in the process is creating a welcoming environment for the tenants. Flowers or a gift basket is a nice gesture. Another option as a welcome gift could be household essentials such as paper towels or bottled water; since moving can be frustrating, these little items are sometimes over looked. New tenants typically really appreciate the thought of a gift in general. An exceptionally nice gesture would be a nice bottle of wine or craft beer from a local shop in the neighborhood to show that the new tenants are welcome to the neighborhood.