Safe Homes Act lease termination notice (Chicago renter)
Legal advice recommended before use.
The Illinois Safe Homes Act (765 ILCS 750) lets a tenant who is a victim of domestic violence, sexual violence, or stalking — or a household member of one — terminate a lease early without being liable for rent for the period after termination. Use this letter to give the required written notice, together with the documentation your specific situation requires (commonly an order of protection, a police report, or a statement from a qualified victim-services professional — confirm the current accepted forms). See our Safe Homes Act guide for the full explanation. If you're in immediate danger, call 911.
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This is a template, not legal advice. If you're in immediate danger, call 911. Consider contacting a domestic-violence advocate or Illinois Legal Aid Online for help with documentation and next steps before sending this notice.
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Frequently asked questions
What documentation do I need to include?
Commonly accepted documentation includes an order of protection, a police report, or a statement from a qualified victim-services professional — confirm the current accepted forms under 765 ILCS 750, since this list is worth verifying directly given the stakes.
How much notice do I have to give?
Confirm the current required notice period under 765 ILCS 750 — commonly cited as around 30 days, but verify current statutory language before relying on a specific number.
Will I owe rent after I leave?
No — once validly terminated under the Safe Homes Act, you're not liable for rent for the period after the termination date. You may still owe rent that was already due before that, and lawful security-deposit deductions can still apply.
Can I use this to request a lock change instead of moving out?
Yes — the Safe Homes Act separately gives a right to a fast lock change if you want to stay. This template includes optional language for that request; adapt it to your specific need.
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