Last updated: April 2026
McHenry has no rent control — Illinois law bans local rent stabilization statewide. State law still protects you on security deposits, termination notice, and self-help eviction prohibition.
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McHenry is a city in McHenry County, situated along the Fox River about 50 miles northwest of Chicago. Illinois state law (765 ILCS 720) prohibits local rent control throughout the state, so McHenry cannot cap rents. Chicago's RLTO applies only within Chicago city limits and does not extend to McHenry. Illinois's Security Deposit Return Act and common law habitability standards are the primary legal protections for renters in this city.
McHenry has no rent control. Illinois law (765 ILCS 720) preempts local governments from enacting rent stabilization ordinances. McHenry County has no rent control measures either. Landlords in McHenry may set and raise rents freely at lease renewal. Month-to-month tenants should be aware that they are entitled to at least 30 days' written notice before a rent increase or lease termination.
Illinois common law imposes a duty on landlords to maintain rental premises in a habitable condition — working heat, plumbing, structural soundness, and a pest-free environment. If your landlord fails to make essential repairs, document the request in writing and contact McHenry County code enforcement if the problem is serious. Illinois prohibits self-help eviction: a landlord cannot lock you out or remove your belongings without a court judgment. The state also prohibits landlord retaliation against tenants who report code violations or assert legal rights under 765 ILCS 720/1. These protections apply throughout McHenry regardless of building size.
The Illinois Security Deposit Return Act (765 ILCS 710) requires landlords to return security deposits within 30 days of the end of the tenancy with an itemized statement of deductions. For buildings with 25 or more units, landlords must pay annual interest on deposits held more than six months. If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit, you may sue for twice the amount withheld plus attorney's fees. Document the condition of your unit at move-in and move-out with dated photographs and provide your forwarding address in writing when you vacate.
Evicting a McHenry tenant requires following Illinois statutory notice procedures and obtaining a judgment from the McHenry County Circuit Court. Month-to-month tenants must receive at least 30 days' written notice before termination. For nonpayment of rent, landlords serve a 5-day notice to pay or vacate. For lease violations, a 10-day notice to cure applies. Self-help eviction — changing locks, removing belongings, or cutting off utilities — is illegal. You have the right to respond to any eviction filing and present your case in court.
No. Illinois law (765 ILCS 720) bans local rent control statewide. McHenry city and McHenry County cannot cap rents. Landlords may raise rent at lease renewal without limit.
There is no cap on rent increases in McHenry. Without state or local rent control, landlords may raise rent by any amount. Month-to-month tenants must receive at least 30 days' written notice before an increase.
Under 765 ILCS 710, your landlord must return your deposit within 30 days of the end of your tenancy with an itemized statement. Wrongful withholding may entitle you to twice the amount withheld plus attorney's fees.
Month-to-month tenants must receive 30 days' written notice. Nonpayment cases require a 5-day pay-or-vacate notice; lease violations require a 10-day cure notice. A McHenry County court judgment is required before any removal.
No. Self-help eviction is illegal in Illinois. Your landlord must obtain a court judgment through the McHenry County Circuit Court before any removal. Unlawful lockouts or utility shutoffs entitle you to legal remedies. Contact Prairie State Legal Services if this happens.
Send a written repair request and keep a copy. Contact McHenry County code enforcement for serious habitability issues. Illinois law prohibits landlord retaliation for reporting violations (765 ILCS 720/1). Contact Prairie State Legal Services for further advice.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws change — verify current statutes and consult a licensed Illinois attorney for advice specific to your situation.
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