Renter's Rights

Michigan is considered a "renter's state" because of its strong legislation protecting the rights of tenants.  In addition, in the City of Marquette, the housing code requires landlords to maintain rental properties in accordance with standards that protect renters from health and safety hazards.  To assist newcomers and those seeking counsel or alternative housing, a full range of services are available from the Dean of Students Office:

• Housing Listings - Updated periodically, this service lists all known rental properties within the general vicinity.

• Tenant Counseling - Pre-rental advice, lease reading service, landlord conflict resolution, housing code violations, roommate problem counseling and related tenant/landlord relations matters are among the areas of concern for which you may seek individual counseling.

• Renters' Rights Information - Several brochures are available from the self-serve display rack to help you deal with your rental situation.  Among these are: "What To Do If the Landlord Won't Fix It," "The Security Deposit: It's Your Money Until the Landlord Proves Otherwise," and "Truth in Renting" (a guide to proper leases).  Also available are sample leases and form letters related to maintenance and money problems in renting.