Statement deadline for damage withholding30 days
Later of vacate or end of right of possession.
Lease price schedulesNot automatically decisive
Specified amounts must still relate to damage beyond normal wear and be reasonable to restore the premises.
Questions to ask about each charge
- Is the charge actually for property damage?
- Was it itemized within the statutory period?
- Is there an invoice, paid receipt, estimate or allowed substitute evidence?
- If the lease states a fixed amount, is the applicable lease section included?
- Does move-in evidence show the condition already existed?
Check local law too. Illinois statewide law is the baseline. Chicago and other municipalities can add renter protections, deadlines or remedies.