Protecting Tenant Rights

Division Of Student Affairs; Western Michigan University

How To Protect Your Rights:

Be ready. Every time you rent, act as if you will someday have to explain everything to a judge.

1. Even if you do not have a lease, try to get your rental agreement in writing.

2. Keep copies of everything in writing such as your lease, letters, repair receipts, inventory check-list, etc.

3. Get receipts for things like your rent or security deposit payments. Keep them in a safe place.

4. Put anything important that you have to say to your landlord in writing and keep copies.

5. Have a witness handy to see or hear anything that you and your landlord might disagree about later.

6. If your place is inspected by the city or by the Health Department, write down the name of the inspector and get a copy of the inspection report. Keep the report in a safe place.

7. Take pictures of any repair, maintenance or damage problems. Keep the pictures in a safe place.

8. If you have any repair work done, write down the name of the repair person, the date, and the problem. Get a written receipt for work and keep it in a safe place.

9. Make a written record of everything important that happens including the dates and what happened and who saw it.

Naturally it is better to stay away from problems by trying to get along with your landlord, but sometimes problems do happen. When they do, you may have to tell your side of the story to a judge. If you remember to do the things listed in the brochure, you will have a better chance of getting the judge to rule in your favor.