Michigan Mobile Home Park Rent Increase Rules Explained
Renters living in Michigan mobile home parks often have questions and concerns about rent increases. Understanding the state’s laws about when and how much park owners can raise your lot rent is crucial to protect your housing stability and ensure you receive fair treatment. This article explains Michigan's rent increase limits, required notice periods, and what steps renters can take if they believe an increase is unfair or unlawful.
Your Rights: Rent Increases in Michigan Mobile Home Parks
Michigan has specific laws for manufactured housing communities (often called mobile home parks). Renters lease the land "lot" their home sits on, and different rules apply than for apartments or single-family homes. The main law covering these rights is the Mobile Home Commission Act (Act 96 of 1987)[1].
Are There Limits on Rent Increases?
- No specific state cap: Michigan does not set a statewide limit or maximum percentage for rent increases in mobile home parks.
- However, rent cannot be increased in a way that is unconscionable (grossly unfair) or discriminatory.
- Park owners must follow the procedure for written notice and cannot raise rent during an active lease period.
Many parks use long-term leases (12 months or more). Your individual lease may include additional protections—always check your lease agreement.
Notice Requirements for Mobile Home Park Rent Increases
- The park owner must provide at least 30 days’ written notice before any rent increase takes effect[1].
- This notice must be delivered directly to you or posted where regular notices are given within the park.
- Rent increases cannot be applied retroactively.
If you receive a notice of a rent increase, make sure it’s in writing, clearly states the new amount, and gives you the required advance notice.
Official Complaint Process: Challenging Rent Increases
If you believe a rent increase is unlawful, discriminatory, or not properly noticed, you may file a complaint with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), which oversees mobile home parks in Michigan.
- Tribunal/Board: Michigan Mobile Home Park Program (under LARA)
- You may also contact the Michigan Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division for unfair, deceptive, or unconscionable practices.
Key Official Form: Mobile Home Park Complaint Form
- Form Name: Mobile Home Park Complaint Form
- Form Number: BCC-982 (Rev. 5/18)
- When to Use: If you believe a rent increase violated notice rules, was discriminatory, or the park is out of compliance.
- How to Use: Example: You receive a notice of a rent increase only 20 days before it is to begin, instead of the required 30 days. Fill out the form and submit it to LARA for investigation.
- Download the Mobile Home Park Complaint Form (BCC-982)
After submitting your complaint, LARA will review the matter and may investigate the park.
Michigan Mobile Home Commission Hearings
If violations are found, the Michigan Mobile Home Commission may hold a hearing or require the park owner to make corrections.
Summary of Michigan Legislation Relevant for Renters
- The Michigan Mobile Home Commission Act (MCL 125.2301 et seq.)[1] covers park rules, rent increases, and resident rights.
- General landlord-tenant rights and dispute procedures are found in the Michigan Landlord and Tenant Relationships Act[2].
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much can my mobile home park raise my rent in Michigan?
Michigan law does not set a specific maximum or percentage cap on rent increases. However, your landlord must provide at least 30 days’ written notice before any increase takes effect, and the increase cannot be unconscionable or discriminatory. - Can a rent increase happen during my lease term?
No. A mobile home park owner cannot raise your rent during the period covered by your current, active lease. Rent increases can only take effect after your lease expires and with the correct written notice. - What should I do if I receive an improper rent increase notice?
First, review your lease and Michigan law. If the notice was less than 30 days or lacks key details, contact your park owner about the error. If unresolved, you may file a complaint with the Michigan Mobile Home Park Program using their official form. - Where can I find an official complaint form for mobile home park issues?
You can use the Mobile Home Park Complaint Form (BCC-982) from Michigan LARA’s official website. - What state agency handles mobile home park rent disputes?
The Michigan Mobile Home Park Program under LARA is the primary authority for complaints and park regulation.
Need Help? Resources for Renters
- Michigan Mobile Home Park Program (LARA): Complaints, regulation, and guidance on Michigan mobile home park laws.
- Michigan Attorney General – Consumer Protection Division: Assists with unfair rental practices and legal information.
- Michigan Legal Help – Rent Increases: Step-by-step information for understanding and responding to rent increases (official Michigan legal resources portal).
- For urgent legal help, contact local legal aid offices such as Michigan Legal Help – Find a Lawyer.
Categories
Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & SituationsRelated Articles
- Michigan Mobile Home Park Rules and Tenant Rights Explained · June 21, 2025 June 21, 2025
- Michigan Mobile Home Owner Eviction Protections Explained · June 21, 2025 June 21, 2025
- Legal Steps to Sell Your Mobile Home in Michigan · June 21, 2025 June 21, 2025
- Mobile Home Lot Fees Explained: Costs & Your Rights in Michigan · June 21, 2025 June 21, 2025
- Can Mobile Home Parks Charge Pass-Through Utilities in Michigan? · June 21, 2025 June 21, 2025
- Michigan Mobile Home Park Closure Relocation Assistance Guide · June 21, 2025 June 21, 2025
- Michigan Mobile Home Park Dispute Resolution: Renter Rights & Help · June 21, 2025 June 21, 2025
- Understanding HUD Standards for Manufactured Housing in Michigan · June 21, 2025 June 21, 2025
- How Michigan Renters Can Buy Their Mobile Home Park · June 21, 2025 June 21, 2025