Leasing License Practice Exam

Which act requires landlords to refund the security deposit or provide an itemized list of damages?

1. Illinois Security Deposit Return Act

2. Fair Housing Act

3. Tenant Protection Act

4. Landlord and Tenant Act

The correct answer is: Illinois Security Deposit Return Act

The Illinois Security Deposit Return Act specifically addresses the obligations of landlords concerning security deposits. This law mandates that, after a tenant vacates a rental property, the landlord must either return the security deposit in full or provide an itemized list of any deductions along with the remaining balance. This requirement ensures that tenants receive a transparent explanation of any charges against their deposit, promoting accountability and fairness in landlord-tenant relationships. In contrast, the Fair Housing Act focuses on preventing discrimination in housing based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, and familial status, and does not address security deposit issues. The Tenant Protection Act, which may pertain to various protections for tenants, does not have provisions specifically about the return of security deposits. The Landlord and Tenant Act provides a broader framework for the relationship between landlords and tenants, including rental agreements and rights, but again, it does not specifically cover the return of security deposits in the manner stipulated by the Illinois Security Deposit Return Act.