Are there any laws governing the use of tenant references?

In Michigan, landlords may require tenants to provide references as part of the rental application process. These references can include personal references, such as family and friends, or professional references, such as previous landlords. However, landlords must follow certain laws when using tenant references. Under the Michigan Fair Housing Act, Michigan rental laws prohibit landlords from discriminating against tenants based on characteristics such as race, color, gender, religion, national origin, family status, marital status, and disability. This means that landlords cannot deny a tenant solely due to the references they provide, or request additional or different references from a tenant based on any of these characteristics. Michigan law also states that if a landlord chooses to use references, the landlord must inform the tenant in writing which references will be checked and why. This is done to ensure that the tenant is aware of the landlord’s policies and expectations and can provide the necessary references. Additionally, landlords must provide the tenant with copies of any reference forms or reports that are obtained. Finally, Michigan rental laws prohibit landlords from using certain types of references altogether. These include criminal background checks, credit reports, and employment records without the tenant’s prior written consent. All of these laws help ensure that landlords are respectful of tenants’ rights and comply with relevant state and federal laws.

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