Generally, yes! The Chicago Residential Landlord Tenant Ordinance provides that a landlord is required to accept a reasonable sublease without requiring you to pay a fee. So if you hate your neighbors, change jobs and want to be closer to work, or just decide you need more space, you can sublease your apartment at any point during your lease provided you find a suitable tenant to take over the remainder of your lease. It’s important to note that your landlord does need to approve the potential tenant just like he or she approved you and does have the ability to say no if the potential tenant doesn’t meet your landlords credit check requirements, employment verification standards, etc.
For more a great list of FAQ regarding subleasing in Chicago, visit the Illinois Legal Aid website at http://www.illinoislegalaid.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=home.dsp_content&contentid=6864.
Tenant rights in Chicago are serious business. The state believes strongly in protecting renters so make sure you know your rights.