2024 House Bill 5761

Housing: landlord and tenants; notification of defective conditions on premises and time limits for landlords to commence repairs; provide.

A bill to amend 1846 RS 66, entitled “Of estates in dower, by the curtesy, and general provisions concerning real estate,” by amending section 39 (MCL 554.139).

AI Analysis – Experimental

This bill specifically focuses on the obligations of lessors or licensors of residential premises. It mandates that these parties ensure the premises and common areas are fit for the use intended by both parties and are kept in reasonable repair throughout the term of the lease or license. This includes compliance with all applicable health and safety laws, except in cases where the disrepair is caused by the actions of the lessee or licensee.

The bill outlines the requirement for lessors or licensors to start repairs within specified timeframes upon receiving written notice of any defects. It includes provisions for immediate hazards and essential utilities, ensuring that tenants have a mechanism to report issues and expect timely responses. Additionally, the bill specifies acceptable methods for delivering written notices of defects, including physical delivery, electronic portals, and other previously accepted communication methods such as text messages, with the term "lessor or licensor" encompassing their agents as well.

H.B.5761 seeks to provide clearer guidelines and obligations for the maintenance of residential premises, aiming to protect the health and safety of tenants.

Introduced in the House

May 30, 2024

Introduced by Rep. Cynthia Neeley (D-70) and eight co-sponsors

Co-sponsored by Reps. Jimmie Wilson (D-32), Regina Weiss (D-6), Natalie Price (D-5), Amos O’Neal (D-94), Kara Hope (D-74), Jason Morgan (D-23), Penelope Tsernoglou (D-75) and Brenda Carter (D-53)

Referred to the Committee on Economic Development and Small Business