Question

A tenant lives in a 100-unit apartment building in Southern Illinois. When he vacates the apartment, he can expect:

a) His security deposit, plus interest, returned within 30 days.
b) His security deposit returned within 45 days.
c) No deposit return, as it must be forfeited in large complexes.
d) No deposit return, unless he makes a written request.

Answer 1

In Southern Illinois, a landlord must return a tenant's security deposit, with appropriate deductions, within 30 to 45 days after the tenant vacates the apartment, not including interest. There are no laws that support automatic forfeiture of security deposits in large complexes.

Step-by-step explanation:

In Southern Illinois, as in many states, the security deposit laws are designed to protect both the tenant and the landlord. According to the Security Deposit Return Act in Illinois, a landlord must return a tenant's security deposit in full, minus any deductions for damages beyond normal wear and tear, within 30 to 45 days after the tenant has moved out, depending on local ordinances. However, there is no provision in Illinois state law that requires the payment of interest on the security deposit to the tenant. Additionally, the deposit is not automatically forfeited in large complexes; the tenant is entitled to the return of their security deposit unless it is lawfully withheld for damages. The tenant should ensure that all possessions are removed and that all keys and property furnished for their use are returned to the owner to avoid any complications.