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HB0003

HB0003: Rules for Illegal Possession of Real Estate

Last scannedAug 24, 2026, 10:00 AM

In one sentence

This bill changes Illinois laws to stop people from claiming ownership of land through illegal possession and sets rules requiring written leases that list all occupants by name and date of birth.

Changes the Code of Civil Procedure so that living on land illegally for seven years does not allow someone to claim it as their own through adverse possession.
Adds a rule stating no person has the right to stay on any real estate, home, or building without a written lease or rental agreement with the owner listed in county tax records or an agent.
Requires all people legally living in a property to be listed by name and date of birth on the lease, rental agreement, or application.
Bans subleasing unless the original tenant's written contract specifically allows it.
States that breaking these rules does not give anyone legal rights to stay, requiring them to leave after receiving notice from the owner.

People who do not have a written lease or rental agreement with a property owner
Tenants and landlords in Illinois
Sublessees (people renting from someone other than the main tenant)
Property owners listed in county tax records

The bill text does not state when this new law will officially take effect.
The source material does not explain how the rules apply if a written lease exists but is missing some required details like dates of birth.

Plain language

Adverse possession: A legal rule where a person can claim ownership of land if they use it openly for a long time without permission.
Subleasing: When a tenant rents out part or all of their rented property to another person.

Official record

Source attached

REAL ESTATE ILLEGAL POSSESSION