Can I Negotiate with My Landlord at the End of My Lease?

 Posted on August 23, 2025 in Real Estate

Reaching the end of a lease does not always mean a smooth transition out of your apartment. Tenants commonly have questions about deposits, property damage or breaking the lease early, and many tenants worry that the only way to resolve these problems is by going to court. In Illinois, however, tenants and landlords often benefit from negotiating directly. With the right approach, you can protect your rights while avoiding unnecessary legal battles and expenses.

At the Law Office of Vincent C. Machroli, P.C., our Hillside, IL residential real estate attorney helps clients understand their options under state law and pursue fair resolutions with landlords.

Can You Negotiate Security Deposit Disputes with Your Landlord?

One of the most common conflicts at the end of a lease is the landlord’s return of a security deposit. Under the Illinois Security Deposit Return Act (765 ILCS 710/1), landlords must return deposits within 30 days of a renter leaving the apartment if the landlord intends to make deductions for damages. The landlord must also provide an itemized list of those damages. If no deductions are claimed, the full amount must be returned within 45 days.

Negotiation may be possible if you disagree with the landlord’s deductions list. You can present evidence such as photos, inspection reports or receipts showing you left the unit in good condition. Often, a clear and documented discussion leads to a compromise without filing a lawsuit.

What Happens if You Want to Break a Lease Early?

Ending a lease before its term expires can be expensive, but tenants may have more flexibility than they realize. Illinois law requires landlords to make reasonable efforts to re-rent the unit if a tenant leaves early. This means you may not owe the full balance of the lease if a new tenant moves in quickly.

Negotiating with your landlord by helping to find a replacement tenant, offering partial payment or reaching a written settlement agreement can minimize financial penalties and keep the matter out of court.

What if the Landlord Says I Damaged the Apartment?

When landlords try to claim that tenants caused excessive damage beyond normal wear and tear, and try to withhold security deposit funds, tenants can easily feel they are being taken advantage of. However, Illinois law distinguishes between normal wear and tear and actual damage. For example, faded paint or worn carpet is typically considered normal wear and tear, while holes in walls or broken fixtures may justify deductions from a deposit.

In negotiations, you may be able to show receipts for repairs you made before moving out, or argue that the alleged damage falls under normal use. These discussions can often result in reduced deductions or an agreement that avoids litigation, especially if your landlord does not have firm proof that you damaged the apartment.

Contact an Oak Park, IL Residential Real Estate Lawyer

If you are at the end of your lease and facing disputes about deposits, damages, or early termination, negotiation may be your best path forward. At the Law Office of Vincent C. Machroli, P.C., we provide no-charge legal consultations to tenants who are having trouble resolving issues with their landlords. Call 708-449-7404 today to speak with a Hillside, IL rental contract lawyer for tenants who can provide help in seeking to resolve landlord-tenant issues fairly and efficiently.