Michigan Senate Bill SB0902

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/6/24
• Refer: 6/6/24

Caption

Housing: landlord and tenants; tenants rights to repair; provide for. Amends sec. 39 of 1846 RS 66 (MCL 554.139). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0900'24, SB 0901'24, SB 0903'24

Impact

This legislation is expected to strengthen the legal framework protecting tenant rights by making landlords more accountable for maintaining safe and habitable living conditions. Tenants will have the right to notify landlords of defects, and landlords must initiate repairs within specific timelines based on the urgency of the defect reported. If landlords fail to meet these obligations, tenants can withhold rent or choose to undertake repairs independently and deduct the costs from their rent. This shift aims to empower tenants and ensure that their living conditions are adequately addressed.

Summary

Senate Bill 0902 aims to amend existing rental laws by enhancing the rights of tenants regarding the right to repair and improve the overall safety conditions in residential properties. It specifies that landlords are responsible for keeping both the premises and common areas in a fit condition for use and mandates that they comply with applicable health and safety laws. The bill particularly emphasizes the immediacy of repairs required for conditions that are deemed imminently hazardous to the health or safety of tenants, imposing strict timelines for landlords to address such conditions.

Contention

While the intention behind SB 0902 is to protect tenants, it may lead to contention between landlords and tenants regarding the definitions of 'imminently hazardous' conditions and overall repair timelines. Critics may argue that such a bill could increase operational costs for landlords or lead to disputes over what constitutes adequate repairs. Additionally, there may be concerns about the burden placed on landlords to quickly address repair issues and the potential for misuse of the 'repair and deduct' option by tenants. The balance between enhancing tenant protections and ensuring fair treatment for landlords will be a critical issue as the bill is considered.