What can a tenant legally do if the landlord fails to provide a habitable living environment?

In Michigan, tenants have the right to a habitable living environment, and if the landlord fails to provide this, they can take legal action. A tenant can first try to contact the landlord and give them a chance to make the necessary repairs or replace hazardous materials. If the landlord fails to do so in a reasonable time, the tenant can pursue further action. The next step is for the tenant to send the landlord a written notice that outlines the problems and the action the tenant wants the landlord to take. The notice must include the tenant’s name, address, and the date of the letter. The tenant can then file a complaint with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs. After filing the complaint, the tenant can exercise their legal rights to terminate the lease. This may result in the tenant having to move out, however, the tenant can keep any security deposit and may be able to seek monetary damages. The tenant can also sue the landlord for damages and seek a court order to make the repairs. In sum, if the landlord fails to provide a habitable living environment, the tenant has legal rights to take action. The tenant should first try to contact the landlord to resolve the issue, and if unsuccessful, then pursue legal action through the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs. In extreme cases, the tenant may be able to terminate the lease and seek monetary damages from the landlord.

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What can a tenant legally do if the landlord fails to provide a habitable living environment?

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