If you’re a tenant in Michigan, understanding your rights is essential. Tenant rights laws are designed to protect you from unfair treatment and ensure that landlords uphold their responsibilities. In Michigan, there are rules that govern the landlord-tenant relationship, including eviction procedures. Let’s dive into tenant rights and the eviction process in the state.
Tenant rights under Michigan law
In Michigan, tenants have rights that protect them during their rental period. You have the right to a habitable living space, meaning your landlord must maintain plumbing, heating, and electrical systems. If there are significant issues, you may request repairs.
Additionally, tenants have the right to privacy. Your landlord cannot enter your rental unit without notice unless it’s an emergency. You also have the right to a written lease that outlines the terms of your agreement. If your lease expires and you continue to pay rent, you are on a month-to-month agreement.
Eviction process in Michigan
If your landlord wants to evict you, they must follow a legal process. In Michigan, eviction starts with a “notice to quit” or “notice of non-payment of rent.” If you don’t resolve the issue within the given time, the landlord can file an eviction lawsuit in court. If the court rules in favor of the landlord, you’ll be ordered to leave, but you can dispute the eviction in court.
Protection against illegal eviction
Landlords cannot evict tenants without following the legal process. For example, they cannot lock you out, turn off utilities, or take your belongings. Such actions are illegal, and you can challenge them.
Michigan law also protects tenants from retaliatory evictions. If you’ve filed a complaint or exercised your rights, your landlord cannot evict you in retaliation.