All landlords in Michigan have legal responsibilities towards their tenants. Maintaining rental properties, following security deposit laws, and practicing non-discrimination in choosing tenants are just some of the many legal responsibilities that landlords have. If they are not aware of these responsibilities, they could wind up in legal trouble somewhere down the road. Comply with… Read more »
No landlord wants to deal with a lawsuit. However, these instances do crop up, even for the most diligent landlords. Minor disputes can typically be handled between a landlord and their tenant, but there are moments when it’s best to have a lawyer to fight your case. Evictions When a tenant stops paying their rent,… Read more »
Screening and choosing tenants is never a straightforward process. First you have to contend with federal and Michigan state tenant laws, but then you also have to consider a tenant’s particular history. No case is simple, and you must stay vigilant to avoid bad tenants or potential lawsuits. Be aware of Michigan laws There are… Read more »
The security deposit. It is perhaps the most contentious issue between a landlord and their tenant. The question of not returning a tenant’s security deposit can be tricky, especially if you don’t know when you should or should not return it. You must always keep in mind that Michigan law does NOT permit a landlord… Read more »
No landlord wants to deal with delinquent tenants. A tenant who doesn’t pay their rent is not only a problem for you but a problem for future landlords as well. Reporting delinquent tenants to the credit bureau can indicate to other landlords that they shouldn’t rent to this particular person. However, reporting a delinquent tenant… Read more »
As a landlord, it’s only natural to worry about potential lawsuits. Keep in mind, however, that nobody (except for lawyers) wants to go to court, and most landlord-tenant and liability lawsuits can actually be avoided with good property management strategies. Here are a few tips that can help protect you from litigation: Screen Your Tenants… Read more »
Upon returning from prison, many ex-criminals who have successfully undergone rehabilitation struggle to find homes in Detroit because their rental applications are denied based solely on their past misdeeds. These individuals will soon have a better chance of finding new homes, however, thanks to a “Ban the Box” ordinance which was unanimously approved by the… Read more »
Following the approval of Proposal 1 in November, Michigan has become the first state in the Midwest where residents can legally grow and use recreational marijuana. Under the terms of the new legislation, anyone age 21 and older can possess up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana on their person and have up to 12 plants… Read more »
Having to evict a tenant is a position that no landlord wants to be in, but that every landlord should be prepared for. In the event that you need to evict a client, it may be important for you to move fast in order to prevent further damage to your property. This means that you… Read more »
Earlier this month, the Detroit City Council voted unanimously to approve new, stricter regulations for rental property owners. Under the terms of the new ordinance, tenants can now legally withhold rent payments from landlords if their properties are not in compliance with city code. Although landlords in Detroit are required to register their rental properties… Read more »