Straight Up Chicago Investor Episode 428: Updates To The 2026 Lease and Other Recent Legal Changes With Mark Ainley
Jan 27, 2026
Updates to the 2026 lease disclosure and tenant rights for domestic violence are explained. New rules on lock changes, who pays, and tenant-proof options are discussed. Changes to squatter laws and police response are reviewed. Guidance on documents for police, using immediate demand notices, and process-server best practices is covered.
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Ask For Proof On Sensitive Requests
- Require documentation when a tenant requests lock changes or lease-breaking for domestic violence claims.
- Ask for a police report or restraining order to justify lock replacement or to verify the claim before proceeding.
False Starts From Domestic Dispute Lease Breaks
- Mark recalled tenants calling midweek claiming they'd break lease after a weekend fight then changing their mind days later.
- These false starts show some requests tied to domestic disputes may not reflect long-term moves.
Update Security Deposit Interest Annually
- Update the security deposit interest rate addendum every calendar year, even if rate unchanged since 2015.
- Failure to use the current-year addendum can be used against you in court; pay accrued interest within 30 days of the 12th month.