Illinois Repairs and habitability remedies

What can a tenant do if the landlord won't make repairs in Illinois?

Under the Rental Property Utility Service Act, if the landlord fails to pay a utility bill it is responsible for, the tenant may pay it and deduct the payment from rent. Withholding a reasonable part of rent for unmaintained utilities or repairs (after notice) can be an eviction defense.

Verified Source: Rental Property Utility Service Act (IL AG guide) · last checked 2026-10-15