Tips for New Landlords in Michigan: Navigating Landlord Law



Being a landlord can be a lucrative business, but it also entails a lot of legal responsibilities, especially in Michigan where there are strict landlord laws. For new landlords who are just starting out, it can be overwhelming to navigate these intricacies. To help you out, here are some practical tips that will make your journey as a landlord smoother, while keeping you compliant with Michigan laws.

Understand Your Rights and Responsibilities as a Landlord In Michigan

The first step to becoming a successful landlord in Michigan is to fully understand your rights and obligations under Michigan landlord-tenant law. Some of the basic landlord responsibilities are to ensure the property is in a habitable condition, make repairs, keep common areas clean, and provide adequate heating and water.

As a landlord, you also have the right to enter your property at a reasonable time to inspect it, make repairs, show it to prospective tenants, or in case of an emergency.  Knowing your rights and obligations as a landlord will keep you from getting into trouble in the future.

Know Your Tenant Screening Requirements

One of the challenges new landlords face is finding and retaining quality tenants. In Michigan, landlords are allowed to screen potential tenants for credit history, references, and rental history. This screening process will help you find the best tenant for your property, and ensure that you have a good rental experience.

It’s important to note that under Michigan law, landlords are not allowed to discriminate based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability. Make sure to follow the Fair Housing Act when screening tenants.

Have a Good Lease Agreement In Place

Another crucial aspect of being a landlord is having a well-crafted lease agreement that protects both the landlord and tenants’ rights and outlines all the key terms of the tenancy. A lease agreement should include things like rent amounts, payment terms, penalties for late payments or bounced checks, security deposit details, and more.

Make sure you have a lease agreement that complies with Michigan law, and that you explain all the clauses to your tenants in detail before they sign it. Doing so will help you avert misunderstandings and disputes down the line.

Stay Up To Date On Michigan Landlord-Tenant Law

Michigan’s landlord-tenant laws are constantly changing, so it’s important to stay up to date with the latest developments. Staying informed will protect you from legal issues that could arise if you accidentally violate the law.

Joining a local landlord association is a great way to stay informed of the latest updates and network with other local landlords. Michigan Landlord & Rental Property Management Association (MLRPM) and the Michigan Association of Landlords (MAL) are two of the most popular associations in the state.

Hire Professional Support

Being a landlord can be a full-time job, and sometimes you may need help. A good property management company can help you with tasks like marketing the rental property, screening tenants, handling maintenance requests, and more.

You can also hire a lawyer specializing in landlord-tenant law to give you advice and legal representation in case of disputes. These professionals can be expensive, but they could save you a lot of money and headache in the future.

Conclusion:

Becoming a landlord in Michigan can be a rewarding experience, but it comes with a lot of responsibilities. By following the tips outlined in this article, you’ll be on your way to being a successful landlord while staying compliant with Michigan landlord law. Remember that being a landlord is an ongoing learning experience; stay informed, network with other landlords, and be willing to seek help when needed, and you’ll be sure to have a successful rental business.


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