Property Management

Under the Chicago RLTO, a landlord who wrongfully withholds a security deposit is liable to the tenant for:

AThe deposit amount only
BTwice the deposit amount plus interest plus court costs and attorney fees✓ Correct
CThe deposit amount plus one month's rent as a penalty
DA maximum of $500 regardless of deposit size

Explanation

Under the Chicago RLTO, if a landlord fails to return the security deposit (or itemized statement with remaining deposit) within 30 days or wrongfully withholds any portion, the tenant is entitled to recover twice the deposit amount withheld, plus interest, plus court costs and reasonable attorney fees. This strong penalty provision is designed to deter landlords from improperly holding security deposits.

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