Chicago sending warning to landlords with multiple citations

CHICAGO (AP) - Chicago officials say they're about to get tough on problem landlords.

The Chicago Department of Buildings plans to send letters to owners of residential buildings that have multiple citations for everything from failing to provide heat and hot water to ignoring rules requiring working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

Those receiving the letters are on a list of problem landlords that the city posted online last week.

Officials say they'll begin informing the landlords this week that they're on the list and warning them to fix the violations or risk more penalties that kick in on March 28.

Those penalties include being ineligible for zoning changes, business licenses and building permits. The city says it could take the worst landlords to court to pursue forfeiture.

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