Can a Landlord Be Sued If a Tenant’s Dog Attacks Someone in Illinois?

 Posted on July 28, 2025 in Dog Bite Injuries

Dog bites can cause serious injuries, from nerve damage to permanent disfigurement. When dogs attack, their owners are typically held responsible for the damage caused. If the dog’s owner is a renter, questions can come up about whether the landlord might also have any liability.

In Illinois, whether a landlord can be sued for a tenant’s dog attack depends on several legal factors, including the landlord’s control over the property and knowledge of the dog’s behavior. If you were injured by a dog in a rental property, speak with our Naperville, IL personal injury lawyer about whether you have a valid claim against more than just the dog’s owner.

When Is a Landlord Liable for a Dog Bite in Illinois?

Under the Illinois Animal Control Act 510 ILCS 5/16), dog owners are generally held strictly liable for injuries caused by their pets. However, landlords can also be held responsible in some cases. Courts may allow a lawsuit against a landlord if:

• The landlord had actual knowledge that the dog was dangerous or had bitten someone before

• The landlord had control over the premises and the ability to remove the dog or enforce a no-pets policy

• The landlord took on responsibility for caring for or housing the dog

For example, if a landlord ignored complaints about a tenant’s aggressive dog and failed to take action, they could potentially be named in a lawsuit after an attack.

How Does Control Over the Property Matter?

One of the key issues in these cases is whether the landlord had enough control over the property or the situation to prevent the attack. If the injury happened in a common area like a hallway, lobby, or yard where the landlord has maintenance or policy responsibilities, they are more likely to be held liable than if the attack happened inside the tenant’s private apartment.

Illinois courts have found that simply owning the building is not enough to create liability. There must be evidence that the landlord had a duty to act and failed to do so.

Can You Sue a Landlord and a Tenant Dog Owner at the Same Time for a Dog Bite Injury?

In Illinois, you can file a lawsuit against both the dog’s owner and the landlord if you can demonstrate that both of them share some fault. This type of shared liability claim may allow for a more complete recovery, especially if the dog’s owner does not have insurance or assets to cover the full extent of your damages.

A skilled attorney can evaluate who is liable and build a case using evidence of negligence, control over the property, and prior warnings about the dog’s behavior.

Contact a Naperville, IL Dog Bite Lawyer

If you were bitten by a dog in a rental property, do not assume the tenant is the only person who may owe you compensation. A Will County, IL dog bite attorney at Dog Bite Injury Lawyer - Mevorah Law Offices LLC can help you explore whether the landlord also bears legal responsibility. We operate on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing unless we win your case. Call us today at 630-552-6860 to schedule a free consultation.