Quick Answer
In Illinois, a landlord who wants possession files a case under the Forcible Entry and Detainer Act and serves a summons and complaint. The landlord carries the burden of proof, and appeals must be filed within 30 days after trial. Only a sheriff may physically evict a tenant. Lockouts, lock changes, utility shutoffs and removal of personal property are not allowed. Statute text last checked October 22, 2026.
Key Takeaways
- File first. Possession is recovered through the court.
- You carry the burden. Bring your lease, ledger and notices.
- Only the sheriff evicts. Not the landlord or a contractor.
- No self-help. No lockouts, lock changes, utility shutoffs or removing belongings.
- Thirty days to appeal. After trial, appeals are filed within 30 days.
1. The Court Path
The path is notice, filing, service, hearing, judgment and, if ordered, enforcement by the sheriff. Each step produces paper that you keep in one folder. Plan for the process to take time and budget accordingly.
2. What Counts as Self-Help
Changing locks, removing doors, turning off water, power or heat, and clearing out a tenant’s belongings are the classic examples. Intent is not the test; the effect on the tenant’s access is. When in doubt, stop and ask an attorney.
3. Bring the Right Documents
Bring the lease, the rent ledger, the notice and proof of delivery, and any communications. Organized records help the hearing go smoothly and make your points easy to follow.
4. Communicate Calmly
A courteous message that explains the next step often leads to a voluntary move-out agreement. Put any agreement in writing, with a move-out date and key return details, and have both parties sign.
5. After Judgment
Only the sheriff carries out the eviction. Ask the court clerk how to schedule it, and do not remove belongings yourself unless the court process provides for it.
6. A Checklist
- Confirm you gave the proper notice and kept proof.
- File the case and serve the summons and complaint.
- Prepare your documents for the hearing.
- Wait for the judgment and the sheriff.
- Never change locks or cut services.
Budgeting Time
Court cases take time, and a tenant who stays is still a tenant. Keep the unit insured, keep services on, and keep maintaining the property while the case is pending. Those steps preserve your asset and show good practice. They also keep the record clean if the matter goes to a hearing.
7. What This Guide Does Not Cover
This guide covers the court-process rule and self-help limits. It does not cover the details of court forms, fees, or tenant remedies. It states the statute and does not predict how a court will rule.
8. Questions Owners Ask
Can I change the locks if the tenant is gone? Ask an attorney first; abandonment has specific facts and the court process is the safe path.
Can I shut off utilities that I pay for? The summary lists utility shutoffs as not allowed.
Can a private contractor remove the tenant? No. Only a sheriff may physically evict.