It is very common for people to choose to rent their homes in Cahokia Heights instead of purchasing. Because of the ongoing issues in the area involving flooding and raw sewage, people can be reluctant to commit to a home in Cahokia Heights with the constant fear of their property being flooded in the back of their minds.

Renting a home can be scary, especially renting a home in a an area that is known for floods. It is important as a lessee (a person who rents) to be aware of your responsibilities and rights as a lessee; and the responsibilities and legal obligations of a landlord.

Below are five important landlord-tenant laws that every lessee should know:

  •  A landlord is required to keep the rental unit in compliance with state and local health and housing codes (in other words, your landlord needs to keep your home habitable).
  • A landlord must make all necessary repairs to a home. 
  • If your landlord fails to pay a bill for which they are responsible, you may pay the bill yourself and require your landlord to deduct the payment from your rent.
  • The Illinois Retaliatory Eviction Act prohibits your landlord from evicting you for complaining to any governmental authority (in other words, your landlord cannot kick you out for reporting them).
  • A landlord must file a lawsuit to properly evict you; they cannot make you move by turning off utilities or removing private property (in other words, the eviction process must take place through the court system, and you may not be evicted without proper and formal notice).

What To Do If your Rights As A Tenant are Violated

1. Gather evidence: Keep records of payments, pictures of the issues in your home, and copies of communications between yourself and landlord.

2. Contact your Landlord: Send your landlord a formal written request explaining your problem and requesting repairs or solutions. Make sure to keep copies of the interactions.

3. If you cannot resolve the issue with your landlord, report to the St. Clair County Housing Authority. (Hire an attorney to represent you if you can afford one).

4. Submit all forms that are required by St. Clair County Housing Authority.

5. If you have troubles filing complaints through St. Clair County, you can result to filing through the state wide agency Illinois Department of Human Rights.

6. https://www.illinoislegalaid.org/ Is a website that provides free legal advice and self-help forms for renters.