Can an Illinois landlord charge a utility bill-back?
For Illinois residential leases signed on or after January 1, 2027 (765 ILCS 705/35).
Last reviewed November 1, 2026 against Public Act 104-0479 and the sources below · How we check facts
Yes, if disclosed
This fee is allowed, but if it is required it must be on page one of the lease and in the listing.
What the law says
Disclose the charge and which utilities are included in rent. Give an estimate if the amount varies.
How to disclose it on page one
Example wording for the first page of the lease:
Water, sewer and trash bill-back (required): about $45, monthly, based on the building's actual bills.
Use the same wording in the listing, or link a free fee disclosure page that shows it.
For renters
If a utility bill-back is required but missing from page one of a lease signed from January 1, 2027, you are not liable for it. Renter rights.
Make your disclosure in about two minutes. Put every required fee on one page with a link you can paste into any listing, plus a print-ready block for page one of your lease.
Frequently asked questions
Can an Illinois landlord charge a utility bill-back?
Yes, if disclosed. Disclose the charge and which utilities are included in rent. Give an estimate if the amount varies.
Does a utility bill-back have to be on the first page of the lease?
If every tenant (or every tenant in that situation) must pay it, yes. Non-optional fees must be explicitly listed on page one, or the tenant is not liable for them.
Related
Not legal advice. Confirm your lease with an Illinois attorney.