Resource For Metro-Detroit Leases

Christine Hossack • September 11, 2025

Responsibilities and Rights of Both Landlords and Tenants in Michigan

The Metro-Detroit resource details the responsibilities and rights of both tenants and landlords in Michigan, covering rent payment, lease terms, property maintenance, and local regulations. 


The Lease Agreement should include section basics, rent payment information, maintenance and repairs, tenant rights and responsibilities, landlord rights and responsibilities, and local Metro Detroit resources. It's important to provide clear, actionable information, potentially linking to official state and local resources for legal compliance and tenant support in the Metro Detroit area. 


I. Lease Agreement Basics 

  • Lease Term: 

          Specify if it's a fixed-term lease (e.g.,

          12 months) or a month-to-month

          agreement.


  • Property Details: 

          Clearly list the property address, unit

           number, and a description of the

           premises.


  • Occupancy Limits: 

           State the maximum number of people

           allowed to reside in the unit.


  • Pets Policy: 

          Outline the rules for pets, including

          any pet deposits, monthly fees, or

          restrictions on type and size.


  • Smoking Policy: 

          Clearly state if smoking is permitted

          on the property.


II. Rent Payment Information

  • Due Date: 

          State the exact date rent is due each

           month. 


  • Payment Method: 

          Specify accepted payment methods,

           such as online payments through a

           property management portal, checks,

           or money orders. 


  • Late Fees: 

          Detail the amount of any late fees and

          the grace period before they are

          applied. 


  • Dishonored Payments: 

          Explain penalties for returned checks

          or failed electronic payments. 


III. Maintenance & Repairs 

  • Reporting Issues:

          Provide clear instructions on how and

          to whom maintenance requests

          should be reported.


  • Emergency Contacts:

          List emergency contact information

          for urgent issues.


  • Tenant Responsibilities:

          Outline tenant responsibilities for

          minor upkeep, such as changing light

          bulbs, and keeping the unit clean.


  • Landlord Responsibilities:

          Describe the landlord's duty to

          maintain the property in good

          condition and make necessary

          repairs.


IV. Tenant Rights & Responsibilities 

  • Right to Privacy:

          Inform tenants of their right to

          privacy and the required notice

          period for landlord entry.


  • Quiet Enjoyment:

          Explain the right to enjoy the

          property peacefully, free from

          unnecessary disturbances.


  • Safety:

          Emphasize the landlord's

          responsibility for ensuring a safe and

          habitable living environment.


  • Property Care:

          Tenants are responsible for

          preventing damage and reporting

          issues promptly.


V. Landlord Rights & Responsibilities 

  • Access:

          Landlords have the right to enter a

          unit for inspections, repairs, and

          showing to prospective tenants, with

          proper notice.


  • Property Condition:

          The landlord must ensure the

          property meets habitability

          standards set by Michigan law.


  • Security Deposit:

          Explain the rules for handling the

          security deposit, including the

          maximum allowed amount, how it's

          held, and the process for its return or

          deductions.


VI. Local Metro Detroit Resources 

  • Michigan State Law:

          Include links to official Michigan

          resources or relevant sections of the

          state's landlord-tenant laws, like the

          Michigan Landlord-Tenant Act.


  • Metro-Detroit Housing Agencies: 

           Provide contact information for local

           housing authorities or tenant

           advocacy groups that offer assistance

           or information specific to the Detroit

           area.


  • Emergency Services: 

          List local emergency numbers for

          police, fire, and other essential

          services.


Disclaimer: This page provides general information. Tenants and landlords in Metro Detroit should consult their lease agreement and local Michigan housing laws for specific guidance. 


For more information on the leasing process for tenants and landlords, feel free to reach out at 248-773-3286.


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