Introduction

The Safe Homes Act provides numerous housing protections for Illinois victims of sexual violence and domestic violence who live in rental property. For instance, a victim can ask to have the locks changed at her apartment or terminate her lease early following a sexual assault. The federal Violence Against Women Act provides housing protections for victims who live in federal housing. The Shriver Center on Poverty Law has developed resource materials, including brochures, fliers, and legal tools (e.g. Sample Notice for lock change, sample notice to end the lease early) to help victims and advocates obtain legal relief regarding housing issues.

The Law

• Safe Homes Act

More Information

• Shriver National Center on Poverty Law
• Unique Housing Needs of Sexual Assault Survivors - NSVRC