Maintaining compliance with fair housing laws is critical for corporate property management firms with large portfolios in Michigan. With properties spanning multiple cities and counties, inconsistent application of policies or procedures can leave companies vulnerable to serious legal and reputational risks. Proactive compliance isn’t just about avoiding lawsuits; it’s about protecting your investment and operating with integrity across all communities you serve.
Understanding Fair Housing Obligations in Michigan
At the federal level, the Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, and familial status. Michigan state law goes further, offering additional protections under the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act, which includes age and marital status. Together, these laws impact nearly every aspect of how property managers advertise, lease, and maintain their properties.
Large operators managing dozens or even hundreds of units must ensure that all employees, from leasing agents to regional managers, consistently understand and follow these requirements.
Where Large Operators Often Face Risk
With multiple staff members handling different aspects of operations, legal gaps often form unintentionally. For example, inconsistent approval of accommodation requests, maintenance delays that appear discriminatory, or marketing materials that suggest tenant preferences can quickly escalate into fair housing complaints.
Even well-meaning staff can unknowingly use language or apply policies in a way that violates the law. Because one misstep at a single property can open the door to a larger investigation, corporate real estate firms must approach compliance as a company-wide responsibility.
Steps to Strengthen Compliance Across Your Portfolio
Centralize Your Policies
Standardize leases, application procedures, and tenant communication protocols so that each property operates under a consistent legal framework.
Provide Regular Training
Train all team members on fair housing laws, including handling reasonable accommodations and avoiding discriminatory practices.
Audit Your Operations
Review property listings, tenant interactions, and maintenance records to identify any patterns that could suggest bias or inconsistency.
Document Everything
Maintain detailed records of applications, maintenance logs, and accommodation requests. Solid documentation can serve as critical evidence if your firm is ever challenged.
Protecting Your Michigan Portfolio with Expert Legal Support
Fair housing compliance across a large Michigan portfolio requires consistency, training, and oversight. A single violation can lead to wide-reaching consequences, which is why developing a strong legal framework across all properties is essential.
If your company wants to strengthen its fair housing strategy or conduct a portfolio-wide compliance review, contact the Law Offices of Aaron D. Cox. Our legal team helps corporate property managers throughout Michigan protect their operations and stay ahead of potential risks. Start your consultation online today by completing our contact form.