University of Illinois System

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How do campus and university departments go about finding and leasing space?
A. The process of leasing space commences with an internal space needs assessment and match with potential space locations within the marketplace. In the event the identified space need is 10,000 square feet or more the lease procurement will require a compliant request for information (RFI) process consisting of a notification of identified space need and its parameters, culminating with review, selection and formal award procedures.

Q. What has changed with the lease procurement process over the years?
A. Effective July 1, 2010 new procurement legislation Senate Bill 51 (SB- 51) was enacted as Public Act PA 096-795 which has made significant revisions to the Illinois Procurement Code. As a potential landlord of the university you are encourage to register under the Illinois Public Higher Education Procurement Bulletin and understand fully the compliance mandates. Illinois Public Higher Education Procurement Bulletin

Q. As a landlord wanting to lease space to the University what do I need to know specifically about real property leasing procurement?
A. One significant change is the requirement to register with the Illinois Board of Elections and obtain a certificate (applies if you were to receive more than $50,000 of aggregate payments annually from the university or other state agencies). This requirement is 30 ILCS 500/20-160 of PA 96-795 and the new State Procurement Code is codified as 30 ILCS 500/. The new procurement Code.

Q. Are there any additional disclosures or registrations required and when are those required?
A. Yes, if you the landlord have 15 or more employees you are required to obtain an Illinois Department of Human Rights (IDHR) Public Contracts Number. Further, you are required to complete the Disclosure Statement. The timing of the registration and all disclosures are pre-lease execution. The more details on lease transitions and state compliance click here. (provide link for return to appropriate RES web page)

Q. What are the advantages of preregistration and full compliance?
A. Full compliance is required per State Statute. While there are additional hoops and mandates required of landlords the university payment record is reliable and consistent.