New rules now apply to Mundelein's landlords

Starting next month, Mundelein landlords will have to register their properties and pay fees for the privilege.

They'll also have to attend crime-free housing seminars run by the police department.

The effort is designed to reduce crime and improve the quality of life for residents, officials have said.

The new rules apply to all rented residential properties and are effective March 1.

Registration of a single-family house will cost $35. For townhouses, condominiums or apartments, a $35 fee will be assessed as well as $2 fees for each unit.

It doesn't apply to hotels or motels that cater to short-term guests.

Landlords have until May 1 to register. Late fees will apply after May 1.

The rules don't just apply to landlords. Under the policy, any criminal activity is a lease violation, and the landlord will have the right to evict the lawbreaking tenant.

The village board approved the rental registration program in December. When trustees discussed the idea at several meetings last year, a few local landlords spoke against the plan.

Some have said the requirements on landlords are burdensome; others said the rules might make potential tenants choose other towns.

Of the six trustees, only Robin Meier voted against the plan. She said it was wrong to create new fees for business owners and new penalties for residents when unemployment and bankruptcies are peaking.

Proponents of the plan said it will prevent over-occupancies of rental units, better help identify the owners of rental properties and reduce crime.

More information about the program can be found at mundelein.org. If you have questions about the effort, call the village's customer service office at (847) 949-3283.