Who Pays for Internet in Michigan Rental Apartments?

Internet access has become an essential utility for most renters in Michigan. But many renters are left wondering: Should the landlord pay for internet, or is it the renter’s responsibility? Are there laws in Michigan that require landlords to provide or maintain internet service? This guide explains Michigan’s rules on internet service in rental housing, giving you the knowledge to handle internet billing and service issues with confidence.

Internet Service: Who Is Responsible in Michigan Rentals?

In Michigan, internet service is generally considered a non-essential utility. This means that, under state law, landlords are not required to provide or pay for internet service unless it is specifically included in your lease agreement.

• If your lease says internet is included: The landlord must provide and maintain it as agreed.
• If your lease is silent on internet: The renter is typically responsible for setting up and paying for internet, unless otherwise negotiated.
• Bundled utilities: Some apartments include internet with other services (like heat, electricity, water). The lease should state all included services clearly.

The Lease Agreement is Key

Your lease is a legally binding contract. Review any section that mentions utilities or services. If internet is not written in, the landlord is usually not obligated to provide it. Always request any utilities bundled into rent be listed in writing to avoid confusion later on.

Are There Any Legal Protections for Internet Access?

Currently, Michigan’s Truth in Renting Act and Landlord and Tenant Relationships Act do not require landlords to provide internet for renters. These laws focus on essential habitability standards—such as heat, water, and safe living conditions—not amenities like internet. However, if your lease promises internet and your landlord fails to deliver, you may have the right to file a complaint or take further action.

Paying for Internet: What Should Renters Check?

If you are unsure about your responsibilities, consider taking these steps before or during your tenancy:

• Refer to the "Utilities" section in your lease agreement.
• Clarify any vague language about what utilities are included in rent.
• If internet is advertised as "included," request written confirmation.
• Before signing a lease, ask about the building’s wiring, provider options, and any shared network policies.

What To Do If a Promised Internet Service Is Not Provided

If your lease guarantees internet but your landlord fails to provide it, you can take several steps:

• Document all communications with your landlord about the internet issue.
• Send a formal written notice requesting that the service be restored or provided. This should be polite and reference your lease.
• If the problem persists, you may use Michigan’s official "Request for Repairs" form (see below), which is more commonly used for essential repairs but can formalize your concern.
• If you experience retaliation or unresolved disputes, the Michigan Department of Civil Rights may be an avenue if your complaint involves discrimination.

Official Forms for Rental Concerns

• Notice of Repair Needed (Form DC 100): This Michigan form is usually for essential repairs, but can be adapted for promised internet service outlined in your lease. Use this form to formally notify your landlord of an unmet obligation.
  Download Notice of Repair Needed (Form DC 100)

Example use: If your lease promises "Wi-Fi included" but you move in and find no internet access, fill out Form DC 100 to formally document your request for the landlord to uphold the agreement.

Which Agency Handles Rental Disputes in Michigan?

If you cannot resolve an internet or lease issue directly, the Michigan District Court typically handles landlord-tenant disputes, including utility disagreements under lease terms. For more information on filing a small claims or housing complaint, visit the official Landlord-Tenant Self-Help Center.

If You Need to Take Legal Action

• Keep copies of your lease, repair forms, and all communications.
• Consider contacting a local legal aid or housing support service if you need help or representation.

Tip: Always communicate with your landlord in writing when requesting internet repairs or reimbursement, as this creates a clear paper trail.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is my landlord required to provide internet service in Michigan?
   No, unless your written lease specifically states that internet is included. Otherwise, renters are responsible.
2. What should I do if my lease says internet is included but it's not working?
   Document the problem and notify your landlord in writing. Use the "Notice of Repair Needed (Form DC 100)" to formally request that internet be provided as agreed.
3. Can my landlord charge me extra for shared internet service?
   Only if it is allowed under your lease. All fees and charges for utilities must be clearly outlined in your rental agreement.
4. What if my landlord refuses to fix the included internet?
   If you have followed notice procedures and the landlord does not respond, you may file a complaint or pursue the matter in Michigan District Court.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Michigan Courts Landlord-Tenant Self-Help Center
• Michigan Legal Help – Housing
• Michigan Department of Civil Rights
• For lease or utility disputes, contact your local legal aid provider.

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1. See Michigan Truth in Renting Act.
2. See Landlord and Tenant Relationships Act.
3. Use Notice of Repair Needed (DC 100) for formal notice in relevant repair or service disputes.
4. Disputes may be addressed by the Michigan District Court, which handles residential tenancy matters.

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