As a landlord, you have likely been left with a tenant’s belongings before and you will likely experience it again. Most of what a landlord runs into in their vacated units amounts to nothing more than junk to fill. But how long are you required to retain items and what does the law allow you… Read more »
What to Know About Section 8 Tenants
Landlords often seek out or simply accept a commonly used government housing funded program often referred to as Section 8. But what should landlords know about Section 8 and the tenants that benefit from it? Read on to learn more: What is Section 8? Section 8 refers to a particular federal law out of the… Read more »
The Top Legal Responsibilities of Landlords in Michigan
All landlords in Michigan have legal responsibilities towards their tenants. Maintaining rental properties, following security deposit laws, and practicing non-discrimination in choosing tenants are just some of the many legal responsibilities that landlords have. If they are not aware of these responsibilities, they could wind up in legal trouble somewhere down the road. Comply with… Read more »
4 Times a Landlord Should Hire a Lawyer
No landlord wants to deal with a lawsuit. However, these instances do crop up, even for the most diligent landlords. Minor disputes can typically be handled between a landlord and their tenant, but there are moments when it’s best to have a lawyer to fight your case. Evictions When a tenant stops paying their rent,… Read more »
How to Screen and Choose Tenants in Michigan
Screening and choosing tenants is never a straightforward process. First you have to contend with federal and Michigan state tenant laws, but then you also have to consider a tenant’s particular history. No case is simple, and you must stay vigilant to avoid bad tenants or potential lawsuits. Be aware of Michigan laws There are… Read more »
When Can a Landlord Not Return a Security Deposit?
The security deposit. It is perhaps the most contentious issue between a landlord and their tenant. The question of not returning a tenant’s security deposit can be tricky, especially if you don’t know when you should or should not return it. You must always keep in mind that Michigan law does NOT permit a landlord… Read more »
How to Draft a Lease Agreement
When accepting a new tenant, every landlord has to draft a lease agreement. After all, a lease, details exactly what you, the landlord, and the future tenant are responsible for. This not only prevents any confusion between you and your tenant, but it can also protect you from a potential lawsuit. But how do you… Read more »
How to Report a Delinquent Tenant to the Credit Bureau
No landlord wants to deal with delinquent tenants. A tenant who doesn’t pay their rent is not only a problem for you but a problem for future landlords as well. Reporting delinquent tenants to the credit bureau can indicate to other landlords that they shouldn’t rent to this particular person. However, reporting a delinquent tenant… Read more »
What to Do When a Tenant Stops Paying Rent
At one time or another, you will have a tenant that doesn’t pay rent. This can be a serious problem, especially if the tenant has a pattern of skipping payments. So, here are some steps you can take if one of your tenants misses a payment: Double-check the lease agreement and payment records Before taking… Read more »
A Landlord’s Guide to Pet Deposits, Fees, and Rents
We all love our pets, but they can be destructive. Pets, after all, can not only damage your property, but they could also be a nuisance to neighbors. 46% of renters live with pets, meaning that nearly half of your tenants likely own a pet. Allowing pets onto your apartment complex is a fine choice,… Read more »