Rules on Rent Increases After Accessibility Upgrades in Michigan

Renting a home in Michigan comes with important protections, especially for tenants with disabilities seeking accessibility upgrades. If your landlord has made changes, like installing ramps or modifying bathrooms, you may wonder if this can lead to a rent increase. This guide explains Michigan's rules on rent increases after accessibility upgrades, the relevant laws, and your options if a dispute arises.

Understanding Accessibility Upgrades

Accessibility upgrades are changes to a rental unit that improve access and usability for people with disabilities. Common examples include:

• Widening doorways for wheelchair access
• Adding grab bars or accessible showers
• Installing ramps or lowering counters

These modifications are often required by federal law, such as the Fair Housing Act, and Michigan's laws on disability rights.

Can Landlords Raise the Rent After Accessibility Upgrades?

In Michigan, landlords are not allowed to increase rent solely because a tenant requests or makes a reasonable accommodation due to a disability. This protection comes from both the Michigan Persons with Disabilities Civil Rights Act and the federal Fair Housing Act. If a tenant requests an accessibility modification, the landlord:

• Cannot charge extra rent simply due to the accommodation
• May require the modification to be done professionally and with proper permits
• Can ask the tenant to restore the premises to its original condition at the end of the lease, if reasonable

Standard Rent Increase Rules in Michigan

Michigan does not have statewide rent control, so landlords can increase rent for reasons unrelated to accessibility, but:

• Rent increases can only occur at the end of a lease term, unless your lease allows otherwise.
• Your landlord must provide written notice before the increase. The notice period depends on your rental agreement (usually 30 days for month-to-month tenants).

Learn more about Michigan rent rules on the Attorney General's page.

Required Forms and Procedures

1. Reasonable Accommodation Request

If you need an accessibility upgrade, you can submit a Reasonable Accommodation Request. There is no official statewide form, but local housing agencies or your landlord may have a template. Typically, your request should:

• Be in writing
• State the change you need and why it is necessary due to your disability

Sample templates and tips are available from the Michigan Department of Civil Rights Disability Rights Resources.

2. Complaint Forms

If you believe your landlord raised your rent because of an accommodation request or refused your reasonable modification, you can file a complaint:

• Michigan Department of Civil Rights (MDCR) Complaint Form: Use the online or printable complaint form to report housing discrimination.
  • When to use: If you face discrimination or retaliation due to a disability accommodation request.
  • Example: Your landlord increases your rent after you ask for a wheelchair ramp.

Who Handles Rental Disputes in Michigan?

Rental disagreements, including accessibility and rent increase disputes, can be addressed with the Michigan District Court in the county where you rent. Most rental cases are handled here. For discrimination, contact the Michigan Department of Civil Rights.

Relevant Legislation

• Michigan Persons with Disabilities Civil Rights Act
• Federal Fair Housing Act

These laws protect your right to reasonable modification and prohibit retaliation or extra charges based on disability accommodations.

Action Steps for Renters

• Put all modification requests and agreements in writing
• Save a copy of your lease and any rent increase notices
• If you feel your rights are violated, file a complaint with MDCR or the District Court

FAQs About Rent Increases and Accessibility Upgrades in Michigan

1. Can my landlord increase my rent for installing an accessibility feature?
   No, your landlord cannot increase your rent simply because you requested or made a reasonable modification due to a disability.
2. Do I have to pay to restore the unit after an upgrade?
   In most cases, yes, the landlord can require you to restore the property to its original condition, unless the modification does not affect the next rental.
3. What if my landlord won’t allow a needed modification?
   You may file a complaint with the Michigan Department of Civil Rights. It is illegal for a landlord to deny a reasonable accommodation for a disability.
4. How much notice must my landlord give for any rent increase?
   Michigan law generally requires at least 30 days’ notice, but check your specific lease terms.
5. Where can I get help with accessibility or discrimination issues?
   Contact the Michigan Department of Civil Rights, or your local legal aid office for assistance.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Landlords in Michigan cannot raise your rent just because you need or install accessibility upgrades.
• You are protected by state and federal laws against disability discrimination and retaliation.
• Formal complaints can be filed with the Michigan Department of Civil Rights if you think your rights are violated.

Remember to put everything in writing, keep documentation, and seek help from official resources if needed.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Michigan Department of Civil Rights — File a complaint or get guidance on disability accommodations
• Michigan District Court Locator — Find your local court for rental disputes
• Michigan Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Resources

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1. Michigan Persons with Disabilities Civil Rights Act (Public Act 220 of 1976)
2. Fair Housing Act, Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968
3. Michigan Department of Civil Rights: File a Complaint
4. Michigan Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Information

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