Many Michigan residents rent houses or apartments. Some can’t afford to own, so renting is a convenient and cheaper option. However, it’s helpful to know that there are certain things your landlord is not allowed to do by law.
Enter without proper notice
If your landlord wants to enter your home, they are not permitted to do so unless they give you at least 24 hours’ notice. It’s important to carefully read your lease so that you know what the rules are for the landlord to enter. This could be in written or electronic format.
Property managers must have a legitimate reason to enter. For example, making a routine check of the place. In most cases, they can only enter during regular business hours, 9 AM to 5 PM, during the weekdays.
Force you to leave
Landlords cannot force tenants to leave the premises without going through the proper legal channels. If the landlord wishes to evict a tenant, they must have a legitimate reason and are required to give them notice beforehand. Notice might be a few days to several months.
Randomly raise the rent
Your landlord is prohibited by law from randomly raising the rent. Once you sign a lease and it includes information about how much rent you are expected to pay each month, that amount stands. A lease is a legally-binding contract, so if your landlord tries to suddenly flip the switch and raise the rent, you might have reason to complain about them to your local housing department.
There are minor exceptions to this rule. If you get a pet or remodel, your rent could be increased.
Refuse to make repairs
You have the right to request repairs when necessary. Landlords are not allowed to refuse to make reasonable repairs. For example, you’re entitled to a working toilet or have a broken window fixed.