Property Management
Under the Chicago RLTO, what remedy is available to a tenant if their landlord locks them out of the unit without going through the legal eviction process?
AThe tenant has no remedy if they owe back rent
BThe tenant may recover two months' rent or twice the actual damages, whichever is greater, plus attorney fees✓ Correct
CThe tenant may only seek reimbursement for moving costs
DThe tenant must file a complaint with IDFPR
Explanation
The Chicago RLTO strictly prohibits self-help evictions (lockouts, removing belongings, shutting off utilities). If a landlord illegally locks out a tenant, the tenant may sue and recover: two months' rent or twice the actual damages (whichever is greater) plus court costs and reasonable attorney fees. The Illinois Forcible Entry and Detainer Act also prohibits self-help evictions statewide. The only legal way to remove a tenant in Illinois is through the court eviction process.
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