Article Guide
The City of Chicago requires all owners of buildings housing four or more family units, or those offering sleeping accommodations for ten or more people, to fill out the City Chicago Bldg form, officially known as the Multiple Dwelling Registration Statement. This registration must be submitted to the Buildings Department by February 1st each year, ensuring that the city has up-to-date information about its residential properties. In cases where any significant changes occur—apart from a change of ownership—owners must submit an updated form within 20 business days. When ownership changes hands, the new owner is required to provide an updated registration statement. Completing the form involves confirming the accuracy of all submitted information, including property addresses, owner details, emergency contact information, and property management specifics. A registration fee of $10.00 is required, and owners are instructed to send it as a check or money order to the city's Department of Buildings. Failing to register can result in fines, and the inability to obtain essential permits or occupancy certificates. With this framework, the registration process supports the city’s commitment to maintaining safe and well-managed housing for its residents.
Form Sample
Multiple Dwelling Registration Statement
Pursuant to Chapter
Every owner must complete this form and certify that the statements are true and correct. Send the completed from with a $10.00 registration fee, in the form of a check or money order (do not send cash), payable to the City of Chicago, to: Building Registration, Department of Buildings, 120 N. Racine Ave., Chicago, IL 60607. Any questions regarding this form should be directed to the Department of Buildings at
(312)
1.Property Address: (If applicable, include address range
N. LaSalle).)
Street Address: _______________________________ ZIP: ___________________
Number of Family Units within Building __________
2.Property Identification Numbers of Building Property
3.Owner: (Do not use a P.O. Box. The name and address of each owner must be listed
separately. List additional owner information on a separate sheet of paper and attach it to this form.)
Owner Name: ________________________________________Percentage Ownership: __________
Street Address: ______________________________________________________________________
City: ___________________________________________ State: __________ Zip: ________________
4.OWNER(S) IS (ARE) ENTITY(IES) OTHER THAN NATURAL PERSON(S)- PARTNERSHIP, LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANIES, CORPORATIONS OR OTHER: (Do not use a P.O. Box.)
•Is the Entity a Partnership or Voluntary Unincorporated Association? YES (If YES, complete Section 4A .) NO.
•Is the Entity a Corporation or Limited Liability Corporation? YES (If YES, complete Section 4A & 4B.) NO.
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A. Name of Responsible Partner, Manager, or |
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B. Name of Registered Agent |
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Officer: |
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Title: ________________________________ |
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Title: ___________________________________ |
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Address: ____________________________ |
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Address: ________________________________ |
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City: ________________________________ |
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City: ____________________________________ |
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State:___________ Zip: ________________ |
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State: ____________ Zip: __________________ |
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Phone: ______________________________ |
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Phone: __________________________________ |
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5.OWNER(S) IS (ARE) LAND TRUST(S): (Do not use a P.O. Box.) Is the property held in a Land Trust?
___YES (If YES, complete this Section 5.) ___NO
(The name and address of each beneficiary must be listed separately. List additional beneficiary information on a separate sheet of paper and attach it to this form. If beneficiary is not a natural person, provide information requested in Section 4.)
Beneficiary: ______________________________ |
Beneficiary: ______________________________ |
Percentage Ownership: ___________________ |
Percentage Ownership: ___________________ |
Address: ________________________________ |
Address: ________________________________ |
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City:____________________________________ |
City:____________________________________ |
State: _______________ Zip: _______________ |
State: _______________ Zip: _______________ |
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6.EMERGENCY CONTACT PERSON: (Do not use a P.O. Box.)
Name of Emergency Contact Person: __________________________________________________
Street Address: _____________________________________________________________________
City: __________________________________________ State: _____________ Zip: _____________
7.AUTHORIZED AGENT: (Do not use a P.O. Box.)
A. Authorized Agent Information Name: _______________________________________________
Street Address: _____________________________________________________________________
City: ________________________________________ Illinois, Zip: ____________________________
B.Attesation: I attest that the information provided in this section is true and correct. I am at least
21 years of age. I maintain an office in Cook County, Illinois or actually reside within Cook County, Illinois. I maintain a
Department of any changes in the information |
submitted in this section about me within 20 |
business days of such change. |
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Signature of Authorized Agent |
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8.PROPETY MANAGER: (yrPM) (Do not use a P.O. Box.)
Does a Property Manager (“Manager”) manage the property? YES (If YES, complete this Section 5.) NO
A.Manager Information. Name: ________________________________________________________
Street Address: _____________________________________________________________________
City: _________________________________________ State: ______________ Zip: ______________
City Business License #____________________ Name of Contact Phone: ____________________
B.Attesation: I attest that the information provided in this section is true and correct. Manager maintains a
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Signature of Contact Person |
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AS OWNER, OR AS A REPRESENTATIVE OF THE OWNER(S), I HEREBY CERTIFY THAT THE STATEMENTS IN THIS FORM ARE TRUE AND CORRECT.
Print Name: ______________________________ |
Title: ___________________________________ |
Signature: _______________________________ |
Date: ___________________________________ |
NOTE: For each day that a building is not registered in accordance with MCC, chapter
The intentional submission of false information on this form shall be an offense punishable by a fine of neither less than $500.00 nor more than $1,000.00. Each day that such information remains uncorrected by the owner(s) shall constitute a separate and distinct offense.
Document Specifications
| Fact Name | Description |
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| Registration Requirement | Buildings with four or more family units or ten or more sleeping accommodations must register by February 1st each year. |
| Change Notification | A new registration form is required within 20 business days for any changes in information, excluding ownership changes. |
| Ownership Change | The new owner must submit an updated registration statement upon change of ownership. |
| Fee Structure | There is a $10 registration fee payable by check or money order to the City of Chicago. |
| Submission Address | Forms should be sent to Building Registration, Department of Buildings, 120 N. Racine Ave., Chicago, IL 60607. |
| Emergency Contact | An emergency contact person must be designated with accurate contact information. |
| Authorized Agent | Registered buildings must have an authorized agent who resides or has an office in Cook County. |
| Property Manager | If a property manager is involved, their information must be included, along with attestation of their details. |
| Legal Implications | Failure to register can result in fines between $100 and $1,000. Each day of non-compliance counts as a distinct offense. |
| False Information Penalty | Submitting false information is punishable by fines ranging from $500 to $1,000, with ongoing penalties for uncorrected information. |
Steps to Filling Out City Chicago Bldg
Completing the City of Chicago Building form promptly is crucial for maintaining compliance with municipal regulations regarding multi-family dwellings. Each step must be carefully followed with accurate information to avoid potential fines or complications. Below are the steps to fill out the form effectively.
- Enter the property address in full, including any applicable address range. Provide the ZIP code.
- Input the Property Identification Numbers (PINs) for the building.
- List each owner's name and address separately. Include the percentage of ownership and contact numbers. Do not use a P.O. Box.
- Specify if the owners are partnerships, corporations, or other entities. If applicable, complete the additional required sections for entity information.
- If the property is held in a land trust, indicate yes and provide details about each beneficiary.
- Provide information for an emergency contact person, including their name, address, and contact numbers.
- Fill in the authorized agent's details accurately. Ensure to sign and date the section, affirming the correctness of the provided information.
- Determine if a property manager is involved and provide their contact details if applicable.
- As the owner or representative, certify that the information is true and correct by signing and dating the final section.
Upon completing the form, submit it with a $10 registration fee, either by check or money order, to the address provided. Ensure all information is accurate and is sent on time to avoid any penalties.
More About City Chicago Bldg
What is the City of Chicago Building Registration Form and who needs to complete it?
The City of Chicago Building Registration Form is a document required by the Municipal Code of Chicago. This form must be completed by the owner of any building that contains four or more family units or offers sleeping accommodations for ten or more individuals. Whether you are a seasoned owner or new to property management, timely registration of your building is crucial for compliance with city regulations. It is also important to file an updated form if any information changes, except in the case of ownership changes.
When is the registration due, and what happens if it’s not filed on time?
The registration must be submitted by February 1st each year. Failing to register your building on time can lead to significant consequences. Each day your building remains unregistered is considered a separate offense, which could result in fines ranging from $100 to $500 for a first violation, and more for subsequent offenses. Moreover, not complying with the registration requirements may hinder you from obtaining necessary certificates or permits related to your property.
How do I submit the registration form, and is there a fee involved?
Once you have filled out the registration form, you need to send it along with a registration fee of $10. This fee must be paid through a check or money order made out to the City of Chicago. Be sure not to send cash. The completed form and payment should be mailed to the Department of Buildings' designated address: Building Registration, Department of Buildings, 120 N. Racine Ave., Chicago, IL 60607. Keeping a copy of the form for your records is always a good idea.
What should I do if my building ownership changes?
When a change of ownership occurs, it is imperative that the new owner submits a new registration statement. This new form will need to include current details about the building and its owners and must be filed within 20 business days of the ownership change. By doing so, you ensure compliance with local laws and avoid potential fines or penalties associated with unregistered properties.
Common mistakes
Filling out the City of Chicago Building Registration Form can be straightforward, but many individuals make common mistakes that can lead to delays or complications. Here are six mistakes often encountered:
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Inaccurate Property Address: Failing to include the complete property address can lead to confusion. Always provide the exact range, if applicable, such as "121-31 N. LaSalle." Omitting details can result in a misdirected application.
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Neglecting the Registration Fee: The form requires a $10.00 registration fee. Many applicants forget to include this payment or send cash, which is not accepted. Only checks or money orders made out to the City of Chicago are valid.
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Incorrect Owner Information: It's essential to list each owner's name and address without using a P.O. Box. Many fail to do this correctly, which can lead to issues in record-keeping.
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Omitting Emergency Contact Information: Not providing a 24-hour emergency contact can be detrimental. This section must be filled in correctly to ensure prompt communication in emergencies.
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Forgetting About Changes in Ownership: If there is a change in ownership, a new registration form must be submitted within 20 business days. Some applicants overlook this requirement, risking penalties.
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Signing Inaccurate Attestations: The applicant must certify that the information provided is true. Failing to review the information can lead to unintended errors and potential fines for submitting false details.
By knowing these common pitfalls, individuals can take steps to avoid mistakes when filling out the City of Chicago Building Registration Form. Attention to detail is crucial for compliance and to prevent additional challenges.
Documents used along the form
When navigating the requirements associated with the City of Chicago Building Registration form, it is essential to also understand a range of related documents and forms. These supplementary documents help facilitate compliance with city regulations and support the registration, operation, and management of rental properties. Below is a list of some of the key forms you might encounter alongside the City Chicago Building form.
- Annual Registration Form: This document serves as a yearly renewal of the registration, ensuring that the city has up-to-date information about the building and its owner. It includes basic property details and must be submitted with the registration fee.
- Property Management Agreement: This agreement lays out the terms under which a property management company will operate the building on behalf of the owner. It typically covers responsibilities, communication protocols, and payment structures.
- Landlord-Tenant Lease Agreement: Commonly utilized when renting units within the property, this document outlines the rights and responsibilities of both landlords and tenants, including rent amounts, security deposits, and provisions related to maintenance.
- Change of Ownership Form: Whenever there is a transfer of ownership, this form must be filled out and submitted to inform the city about the new owner. It ensures that the property’s registration reflects current ownership accurately.
- Certificate of Occupancy: Required for all buildings, this certificate verifies that the structure complies with local building codes and is safe for occupancy. It is often a prerequisite for tenants to move into residential units.
- Emergency Contact Registration: Property owners must provide up-to-date emergency contact information for a designated person who can be reached in case of urgent situations. This ensures quick communication in emergencies.
- Violations Response Form: If a property receives violations or notices from the city, this form must be submitted in response, detailing how the owner plans to address the issues and any corrective actions taken.
- Inspection Report Forms: Following routine or complaint inspections, these forms document the findings of inspectors regarding the condition of the building. They identify any code violations and are essential for compliance efforts.
- Agent Authorization Form: If a property owner designates an agent to act on their behalf, this form authorizes that individual to make decisions and manage communications with the city regarding the property.
- Rental Property License Application: In addition to building registration, rental properties may require a separate license from the city that validates the legality of renting units. This form ensures compliance with local laws governing rentals.
Understanding these documents is crucial for building owners and property managers alike. Engaging with the necessary forms fosters compliance and promotes positive relationships with tenants and regulatory authorities. Remember, each document plays an integral role in the smooth operation of rental properties within the city of Chicago.
Similar forms
The Rental Registration Form is a vital document for landlords and property owners in many municipalities across the United States, similar to the City of Chicago Building form. Like the Chicago Building form, this document requires property owners to submit specific information about their rental properties, such as the property address and the number of units. It is essential for compliance with local housing regulations and enables municipalities to keep track of rental properties to ensure they meet safety standards. Moreover, if there are any changes to the property or ownership details, landlords must update their registration promptly to avoid penalties.
The Property Ownership Disclosure Form further parallels the Chicago Building form in terms of compliance and transparency. This form typically demands details about the property owners, including names, addresses, and percentage of ownership. Just as the Chicago Building form mandates a certification of the accuracy of the provided information, the Property Ownership Disclosure form requires property owners to attest to the correctness of their statements. This helps municipalities in monitoring property ownership and ensuring that all owners are held accountable for their property.
The Business License Application is another document that shares similarities with the City of Chicago Building form. Both forms require disclosures about the property and its management. While the Chicago Building form focuses on residential properties, the Business License Application covers commercial entities. Both documents necessitate a fee for processing and emphasize the importance of accurate and timely updates regarding ownership or management changes, fostering a sense of accountability and regulatory compliance.
The Certificate of Occupancy Application is also akin to the City of Chicago Building form, as it relates to the use and habitation of buildings. This application ensures that a property meets all necessary safety and zoning requirements before it can be occupied. Just like the registration of buildings in Chicago, obtaining a Certificate of Occupancy is mandatory for properties being rented or occupied. Updates on ownership or substantial changes to the structure typically require a new certificate, ensuring all pertinent information is up-to-date with local authorities.
Lastly, the Lease Agreement echoes the requirements of the Chicago Building form through its emphasis on accurate representation and responsible management. While it serves a different purpose, the Lease Agreement outlines the responsibilities of landlords regarding the condition and management of their properties. It often includes clauses about updating tenant information and the responsibilities of owners to address any violations. Just as owners certify the accuracy of the information in the Chicago Building form, both parties in a Lease Agreement must acknowledge their obligations and agree to maintain compliance with local rental regulations.
Dos and Don'ts
When filling out the City of Chicago Bldg form, it's essential to ensure accuracy and completeness. Here are some important do's and don'ts to help you through the process.
- Do include the complete property address. Make sure to list the full range if applicable.
- Do provide accurate and up-to-date information about all property owners. Each owner's name and address should be clearly stated.
- Do submit the form with the required payment of $10. This can be a check or money order made out to the City of Chicago.
- Do respond promptly to any changes in ownership or property details. Submit an updated registration within 20 business days.
- Don’t use a P.O. Box for any of the addresses required on the form. Physical addresses are a must.
- Don’t forget to include a signature on the form. An unsigned form may lead to delays or rejections.
Misconceptions
Understanding the City of Chicago Building Registration form is essential for property owners and managers in the area. However, several misconceptions can lead to confusion. Here are ten common misunderstandings about this registration process:
- Only large buildings need to register. Many believe registration is only for skyscrapers or large complexes. In reality, any building with four or more family units or ten or more sleeping accommodations must register.
- Registration is a one-time process. Some think that once registered, they never need to do it again. In fact, registration must be updated annually and re-filed if any information changes.
- It’s fine to use a P.O. Box for owner information. This is incorrect. The registration form explicitly requires a street address, not a P.O. Box.
- Changes in ownership don’t require new registration. This is a misunderstanding. Keeping information up-to-date is crucial; when ownership changes, a new registration statement must be submitted.
- $10 fee is optional. Some believe they can skip the registration fee. However, the fee is mandatory for processing the registration.
- Only building owners can fill out the form. Although owners typically handle the registration, an authorized agent can also submit the form on their behalf.
- All owners must be individuals. This is misleading. The registration allows for various ownership structures, including partnerships and corporations.
- There are no penalties for late registration. A common myth is that timing isn’t crucial. However, failing to register on time may result in daily fines.
- Once it's registered, no further communication is needed. Owners must stay vigilant; they have to notify the Department of Buildings about any changes within 20 business days.
- False information on the form has minor consequences. This is not accurate. Providing incorrect information can lead to significant fines and legal repercussions.
Being well-informed is vital. Awareness of these misconceptions can help in successfully navigating the registration process without unnecessary pitfalls.
Key takeaways
Filling out the City Chicago Building Registration form is a crucial step for property owners. Here are some important takeaways to keep in mind:
- Registration Requirement: If your building has four or more family units or provides sleeping accommodations for ten or more people, you must register with the Buildings Department by February 1st each year.
- Timely Updates: Any time there is a change in the information provided on your form, excluding ownership changes, you must submit a new form within 20 business days.
- Ownership Changes: If there’s a change in ownership, the new owner is responsible for submitting an updated registration statement.
- Certification: Each owner must certify that the information provided on the form is accurate and truthful.
- Submission Details: Complete the form and include a $10 registration fee. Payment must be in the form of a check or money order, made out to the City of Chicago.
- Mailing Address: Send your completed form to the Buildings Registration at the Department of Buildings, located at 120 N. Racine Ave., Chicago, IL 60607.
- Emergency Contact: Make sure to include a 24-hour emergency contact person on the form to receive notifications about the property.
- Authorized Agent: If you have an authorized agent, their information must be provided. They should also attest to the accuracy of their details.
- Property Management: If your building has a property manager, you will need to provide their information as well, ensuring they understand their responsibilities under the code.
Taking these steps ensures compliance with the Municipal Code of Chicago, helping you avoid potential fines and promoting tenant safety.