Key Points of This Article:
- The coronavirus pandemic does not make it acceptable for landlords and property management companies to ignore their duty in ensuring rental properties remain in good condition and reasonable repair.
- If you need something fixed in your rental home, let your landlord know as soon as possible in writing and allow for the time necessary for repairs.
- Even if rent payments fall behind due to COVID-19 disruptions, Michigan landlords must still make sure that the house, land, and property being rented remain in good condition, and ongoing repairs continue.
- If you have become injured because of your landlord’s failed duties to keep your rental property safe, contact a Michigan personal injury lawyer to discuss your legal options.
Even During a Pandemic, Michigan Landlords Have a Duty to Repair Rental Properties
The landlord negligence injury attorneys at the Lee Steinberg Law Firm, P.C. continue to be busy representing Michigan tenants (and their guests) due to injuries caused by the negligence of a landlord or their property management company. And even during the challenges created by COVID-19 and Michigan’s stay-at-home order, landlords still have a duty to make sure their houses and apartment complexes are in reasonable repair and, under the law, fit for the intended use. Individuals and families do not have to feel forced to live in dangerous conditions because of the coronavirus pandemic.
This includes being at risk of personal injury due to:
- broken banisters or defective railings
- crumbling and cracked steps
- collapsed ceilings and doorways
- walkways and parking lots that have not been maintained
- dangerous porches and rotting decks
Once you notice any of these maintenance problems, promptly notify the landlord and request a timely repair. If you have already asked for these repairs in writing – and have a copy to show proof – and still have not received the necessary services, it is then time to resort to legal action.
Even during this time of uncertainty, when rent may be behind, your landlord must ensure that the house is in good condition, and usual maintenance activities and requested repairs must continue. Also, Governor Whitmer’s order signed on March 20 says that landlords are temporarily prohibited from removing any tenant from their properties for non-payment due to the challenges caused by COVID-19.
While each landlord-tenant case we see if different, the duties of the landlord never change and are supported by statute (MCL 554.139) when representing Michigan landlord-tenant personal injury cases.
Legal Help for Tenant Injuries Caused by Michigan Landlord Negligence
If you or anyone you know has been injured due to a landlord’s negligence, such as a broken banister or railing, rotted stairs or deck, or the blatant disregard to repair a damaged area after request, give our office a call. Our dedicated team of Michigan tenant injury lawyers can help you pick up the pieces and obtain monetary compensation.
Call the Lee Steinberg Law Firm, P.C. toll-free at 1-800-LEE-FREE (1-800-533-3733) for a free telephone consultation. As always, there is no fee until we win your case. Our dedicated team of Michigan tenant injury lawyers are working through this time and readily available to answer your questions.
Also read: Common Causes of Personal Injury Due to Landlord Negligence
