Michigan House Bill HB4989

Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/18/25
• Refer: 9/18/25

Caption

Housing: landlord and tenants; provision for tenant to escrow rent when certificate is withheld pending compliance; modify. Amends sec. 130 of 1917 PA 167 (MCL 125.530). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4990'25

Impact

The most significant impact of HB 4989 is its potential to enhance tenant protections against unsafe living conditions. Upon the suspension of a certificate of compliance, tenants will have their obligation to pay rent suspended as well, with suspended rents required to be deposited into an escrow account. This provision is designed to ensure that funds are managed correctly and can be utilized to address health and safety violations promptly. The bill emphasizes the importance of maintaining housing standards and addressing conditions that could pose risks to tenants' health.

Summary

House Bill 4989 proposes amendments to the Michigan Housing Law of 1917, specifically focusing on the regulations surrounding the issuance of certificates of compliance for rental premises. The bill aims to ensure that no property may be occupied unless it has been deemed safe and healthy for such purposes by the enforcing agency. It mandates that if a certificate is withheld or suspended due to health and safety violations, the impacted areas of the property must be vacated until compliance is achieved. This includes the stipulation that tenants are protected from rental obligations during the period a certificate of compliance is not issued or is suspended.

Contention

Contention surrounding HB 4989 primarily arises from the balance between tenant protections and landlord rights. Landlords may argue that the bill could lead to financial burdens, especially when compliance issues are subject to inspection and can be delayed. Conversely, tenant advocates support the bill as a critical measure for safeguarding tenant rights and ensuring accountability for landlords. Notably, the bill ties its enactment to House Bill 4990, indicating that both pieces of legislation may be seen as interdependent in addressing housing regulations comprehensively.