Landlord, rental compliance problems in Detroit? How to get help

Having a problem with a bad landlord or rental property in the city of Detroit?

Help Me Hank has been dealing with this issue for months and we’ve put together some resources for residents who need help.

If you think you are part of a landlord scam, the first thing to do is to check that the property is registered with the city. Click here and view the interactive map to see the current status of rental properties in your area.

If your rent is not kept up to date by your landlord, you can request a free inspection from the city.

All tenants have the right to live in a neat and safe apartment. Renters are encouraged to report rental properties in need of inspection and repair. Renters can arrange a viewing (at no charge to them) by calling (313) 224-2733.

Frequently asked questions about rental properties – What landlords and renters should know

Certificate of registration of rental

A rental certificate is free of charge and an advantage for landlords when prospective tenants are looking for a rental apartment. Landlords who comply with Detroit City codes and ordinances have a greater chance of licensing their property. Under the City of Detroit’s Property Maintenance Code (Chapter 8), an apartment is considered a rented home if it is not an owner-occupied single family home. Residential rental properties include: 1- and 2-family houses, multi-family houses, rental apartments, etc. as well as rented rooms within a single-family house. To obtain a rental registration certificate, the owner must:

• Complete a rental registration form and submit it to the Department of Building Safety Engineering and the Environment. The certificate is sent to the owner or his representative. – Register rental property

Certificate of Conformity

A Certificate of Conformity is required for all commercial buildings, structures and residential rental properties in the City of Detroit, except for owner-occupied single family homes. The Certificate of Compliance means that the property has been inspected and meets the minimum requirements of the Detroit Property Maintenance Code and/or Zoning Ordinance. The Certificate of Conformity is valid for three years for 1-2 family houses and two years for multi-family houses from the date of the initial inspection.

To obtain a certificate of conformity for a residential or commercial property, the owner must:

• Have a complete and recent inspection of the property, no more than one (1) year old.

• Complete any repairs listed on the Correction Order.

• Request a re-inspection to ensure repairs have been properly carried out.

• Possess a valid rental registration certificate, if applicable.

• Comply with all provisions of a Special Land Zone Grant, if applicable.

• Pay all assessed inspection fees.

For more information on landlords and city rental policies, click here.

To report vacant and open, vacant and unmaintained, fire damaged or collapsing buildings, call 313-224-3215 or email [email protected]. More information can be found here from BSED.

Previous report: How the city is working to help Detroiters deal with bad landlords