Your lease is ending soon. Will your rent go up? Do you have to renew? Can you negotiate? Here's what Chicago renters need to know about lease renewals.
Lease Renewal Basics
In Chicago, there's no automatic right to renewal. When your lease ends:
- The landlord can offer a new lease — Often with a rent increase
- You can negotiate terms — Rent, lease length, amenities
- Either party can choose not to renew — With proper notice
- If no one does anything, you become month-to-month — At higher risk
Notice Requirements
The notice period depends on your lease type:
Required Notice Periods
Check your lease—it may require longer notice (60-90 days is common)
Important: Check Your Lease
Your lease may have specific renewal terms that override default rules. Always read your lease carefully for auto-renewal clauses or longer notice requirements.
Rent Increases
Chicago has no rent control. Landlords can raise rent by any amount at renewal time. However:
- They must give you written notice of the increase
- The increase takes effect when your new lease starts (not mid-lease)
- You can negotiate or decline and move out
Typical Rent Increases
How to Negotiate Renewal
You have more leverage than you think. Landlords prefer keeping good tenants—turnover costs them money.
Negotiation Tactics
- Start early
Begin negotiating 60-90 days before lease ends
- Research market rates
Know what similar apartments rent for nearby
- Highlight your value
Paid on time? No complaints? Quiet tenant? Say so.
- Offer longer lease
Commit to 18-24 months for a lower increase
- Ask for improvements
New appliances, fresh paint, or repairs in exchange for increase
If You Don't Want to Renew
Deciding to move? Here's what to do:
Non-Renewal Checklist
- Give written notice per your lease terms (usually 30-60 days)
- Keep a copy of your notice and send it certified mail or email with read receipt
- Document the apartment condition before moving out (photos/videos)
- Request a move-out inspection
- Provide forwarding address for security deposit return
Month-to-Month Tenancy
If your lease expires and neither party does anything, you typically become a month-to-month tenant. This means:
- Pro: More flexibility to move with 30 days notice
- Con: Landlord can also end tenancy with 30 days notice
- Con: Landlord can raise rent with 30 days notice
- Risk: Less stability than a fixed-term lease
Pro Tips
- Set a calendar reminder — 90 days before lease ends to start planning
- Get renewal offers in writing — Don't rely on verbal agreements
- Know your walkaway number — Decide in advance what increase you'll accept
- Research before you negotiate — Check listings on Apartments.com, Zillow, Domu
- Be professional — A good relationship with your landlord helps negotiations