Best Real Estate Lawyers in Springfield, IL

Springfield, IL Real Estate FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Springfield, Illinois?

  For non-emergency cases, you may call the Springfield Police Department at 217-788-8311.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Springfield, Illinois?

  To obtain a copy of a Springfield police report, you are required to submit a request under the Freedom of Information Act. This can be done in writing, online, or in person. The Springfield City Clerk's Office is responsible for handling FOIA requests. You may send written requests via fax to 217-789-2144.

• What are the disclosure requirements for home sellers in Springfield?

  In Springfield, sellers must provide a disclosure report to potential buyers, informing them about any known material defects in the property. Illinois law mandates written disclosure of the property's condition, including unsafe conditions, environmental hazards, soil problems, flood risks, insect infestations, and material defects like faulty HVAC systems or wiring. However, the disclosure requirements do not apply to certain situations like property transfers in divorce settlements, foreclosures, bankruptcies, estates, or gifts to close family members.

• Can landlords increase rent in Springfield without a limit?

  In Springfield, there is no rent control law, meaning landlords have the freedom to raise the rent as they see fit. However, they must provide advance notice to tenants. According to the ordinance, if a tenant has lived in the apartment for more than six months but less than three years, the landlord must give a 60-day notice before increasing the rent. If the tenant has lived there for more than three years, the notice period extends to 120 days.

• Can a landlord enter a rental property without notice in Springfield?

  In accordance with 735 ILCS 5/9-102, a landlord in Springfield is obligated to provide a tenant with a 24-hour advance notice before entering the rental unit for repairs or property showings. However, it is important to note that in the case of an emergency, the landlord is exempt from the requirement to give prior notice.

• How can an individual claim property ownership through adverse possession laws in Springfield?

  In Illinois, adverse possession laws state that individuals in Springfield can gain legal ownership of a property by occupying it continuously and hostilely for a minimum of 20 years. They must also demonstrate either "color of title" or payment of property taxes for at least seven of those years. Adverse possession requires meeting specific criteria, including actual, open, notorious, and exclusive possession claimed under a title inconsistent with the true owner.

• Can a landlord lock out a tenant in Springfield?

  In Springfield, landlords must follow specific procedures, including obtaining an eviction order from a judge and involving the sheriff, to lock out tenants. Evictions cannot be carried out without valid reasons, and tenants have the right to stay until their rental period expires unless they violate rules. If tenants remain in the property after their lease ends without renewal, landlords can issue written notices to vacate, such as a seven-, 30-, or 60-day notice to quit.