If the repair is yours to pay
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Default rule and exceptions
Michigan law implies a covenant in every residential lease that the landlord will keep the premises in reasonable repair and comply with health and safety laws, under MCL Section 554.139.
| Party | What they are responsible for |
|---|---|
| Landlord | Keep the premises in reasonable repair during the lease term and comply with applicable state and local health and safety laws (MCL Section 554.139). |
| Tenant | Not cause disrepair or health/safety-law violations through willful or irresponsible conduct; the landlord's duty does not apply where the tenant caused the problem. |
| Exceptions | The implied covenant does not apply when the disrepair or health/safety-law violation was caused by the tenant's own willful or irresponsible conduct or lack of conduct (MCL Section 554.139). |
What the source says
Last verified against the primary source on Sep 29, 2026.
To keep the premises in reasonable repair during the term of the lease or license, and to comply with the applicable health and safety laws of the state and of the local unit of government where the premises are located, except when the disrepair or violation of the applicable health or safety laws has been caused by the tenants wilful or irresponsible conduct or lack of conduct.
(1) In every lease or license of residential premises, the lessor or licensor covenants: (a) That the premises and all common areas are fit for the use intended by the parties.
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Common questions
Who pays for rental / landlord-tenant repair in Statewide, MI?
The landlord. Keep the premises in reasonable repair during the lease term and comply with applicable state and local health and safety laws (MCL Section 554.139).
Are there exceptions in Statewide, MI?
The implied covenant does not apply when the disrepair or health/safety-law violation was caused by the tenant's own willful or irresponsible conduct or lack of conduct (MCL Section 554.139).
What is this based on for Statewide, MI?
This verdict is sourced to MCL Section 554.139 - "Lease or license of residential premises; covenants; modifications; liberal construction, inspection" and 2 sources in total, each independently re-checked before publication.
Sources
- MCL Section 554.139 - "Lease or license of residential premises; covenants; modifications; liberal construction, inspection"statute · verified-primary · accessed 2026-09-29
- MCL 554.139 - Covenants as to premises; covenants; modifications; liberal construction, inspectionstatute · verified-primary · accessed 2026-09-29
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