Michigan Senate Bill SB0272

Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/30/25
• Refer: 4/30/25

Caption

Housing: condominium; definition of undeveloped land; modify. Amends sec. 67 of 1978 PA 59 (MCL 559.167).

Impact

The enactment of SB 272 could significantly alter the landscape of condominium development in Michigan. It allows developers to maintain control over undeveloped land for a longer duration, potentially impacting how communities assess and manage future growth. This change could also lead to conflicts between developers and condominium associations, especially if developers decide not to develop the land within the stipulated time frame. Moreover, the provisions regarding amendments to condominium documents may require associations to become more proactive in governance, ensuring that changes are documented and formally recorded.

Summary

Senate Bill 272 seeks to amend the Condominium Act of 1978, specifically focusing on the definition and management of undeveloped land within condominium projects. The bill introduces provisions that allow developers and their successors to withdraw undeveloped land from a project or convert undeveloped condominium units to 'must be built' status without needing consent from co-owners or mortgagees for a period of ten years following the recording of the master deed. This is designed to provide developers with greater flexibility in managing their projects and responding to market conditions.

Contention

While supporters argue that the bill enhances the ability of developers to respond to changing market conditions and increases the viability of condominium projects, opponents raise concerns about the potential loss of local control and the rights of current co-owners. Critics fear that allowing developers to unilaterally convert undeveloped land without co-owner consent could undermine community interests, leading to disputes about land use and property rights. This contention centers around the balance of power between developers and condominium associations, as well as the bill's implications for community autonomy.