Chicago RLTO summary: the lease paperwork that resets at every renewal

Which properties this applies to

Chicago's Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance (RLTO), Municipal Code Chapter 5-12, sets baseline rights and obligations for most residential rentals in the city. Owner-occupied buildings with six units or fewer are generally outside its scope, though some provisions may still apply. Confirm coverage for a specific property with the Chicago Department of Housing.

The RLTO summary at every lease

The city's RLTO summary must be attached to every written rental agreement, and it must also be provided at the initial offering of a renewal. For oral agreements, it must be given to the tenant at the initial offering. Because the city updates the summary, use the current version from the Department of Housing rather than an old copy.

Security deposit interest

The interest rate a landlord must pay on security deposits is set each year by the City Comptroller. Landlords must pay interest annually on deposits and prepaid rent held more than six months. Check the current rate each year rather than reusing a prior figure.

Why it is not a one-time task

Because the summary must be attached at each written lease and at each renewal, a portfolio with staggered renewal dates has a separate compliance moment for each unit. Track those dates on the property compliance calendar.

What happens if you miss it

The summary itself does not state a damages amount or tenant termination period for failing to attach it. Consult the full ordinance or an attorney to confirm the consequences before relying on any specific figure.