Rental Information
The Building Department is responsible for the registration and inspection of nonowner-occupied residential properties. Here you will find information and documents pertaining to this process. 
If you have any questions that cannot be answered here, contact the Building Department
Monday-Thursday 8a-4:30p 
586-445-3661 opt 2.


Owners and Landlords

Rental Properties must be registered every two years from application date, properties that are not registered or that do not come into compliance are subject to additional fees.  If a property is certified when it changes ownership, the certificate will transfer to the new owner if they register with the Building Department within 14 days of sale.

To start the process, fill out this application. 
To have an idea of what is looked for at inspection, this is a list of commonly found violations. 
To update information for your property, use this form.
All owners and property managers must also create a registration for themselves. This is a one time registration that is separate from the registration of the property. No matter how many homes you own or manage in your name, this registration only need be turned in once. 
The furnace/boiler of the rental property will need to be inspected by a licensed contractor. This is a blank report that you may use and will give you an idea of what is required. You are not required to use our form, most companies have their own, but all information listed is needed. 

The Building Department cannot provide legal advice, however this is a publication from the State of Michigan that gives details about your rights and responsibilities as a landlord. If you prefer a physical copy they are available at the Building Department counter at no cost. 
Landlord and Tenant Guidebook

Tenants

Tenants may not occupy a rental property until it has been certified with the city.  If there are maintenance issues with the property and your landlord has not attempted a correction, it is your right to request a special inspection. The rental inspector will visit the property and investigate the concern; if it is enforceable a letter will be sent to the landlord with a timeframe in which to make the correction. 
To request inspection call (586) 445-3661 opt 2


The Building Department cannot provide legal advice, however this is a publication from the State of Michigan that gives details about your rights and responsibilities as a tenant. If you prefer a physical copy they are available at the Building Department counter at no cost. 
Landlord and Tenant Guidebook