Illinois Tenant Won't Move Out? First Confirm the Tenancy Actually Ended.
A tenant who remains in the property is not automatically a filing-ready holdover. Illinois requires the landlord to establish how the tenancy ended before relying on a written demand for possession.
Start the Illinois Holdover ToolThe rule to remember
Do not jump from “the tenant is still there” to a possession demand. First establish the legal end of the tenancy. Fixed-term expiration, periodic-tenancy termination, tenant-given notice, and landlord nonrenewal are different paths.
What the Illinois tool checks
Why the tenant's right to possession should have ended.
Whether the lease or termination notice actually ended the tenancy.
Chicago or Cook County notice requirements when applicable.
Whether post-termination rent or an agreement changed the situation.
Whether the tenant is still physically in possession.
Whether a prior demand, eviction case, or specialized rule changes the path.
Which Illinois §9-211 service method can be used.
Whether the facts are ready for a written demand for possession.
Primary Illinois framework
735 ILCS 5/9-202 addresses holding over after expiration and written demand for possession. Sections 9-205 through 9-208 govern termination of certain tenancies. Section 9-211 controls service. Chicago and Cook County can add local termination requirements.
Use the Illinois Tenant Won't Move Out Tool
The guided tool establishes the termination basis instead of asking you to assume the tenancy already ended.
Start the Illinois Holdover Tool