Guidance For Landlords During Coronavirus – Michigan

There is no question the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is having an enormous impact on everyday life. As we are called on to “stay home,” the economic changes that are accompanying the pandemic have left many worried about the roofs over their heads, or how this will affect their livelihood.

It is difficult enough when you are worried about paying rent or the mortgage on the house in which you live. But if you are a landlord, there is a whole new set of complications. What are your rights when renters can’t pay, and what are your responsibilities towards tenants?

Below, you will find details of both federal and state guidance on mortgages, evictions, and the resources available during this difficult time.

Table Of Contents For Michigan Landlords During COVID-19

• Mortgage Forbearance For Coronavirus In Michigan
• Evictions And Nonpayment Due To Coronavirus In Michigan
• Resources For Tenants During Coronavirus In Michigan
• Can I Show A Rented Unit In Michigan During Coronavirus?

The federal government has recently passed the CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security) Act, which specifically includes measures to help relieve the pressure associated with housing.

The act mandates forbearance on all federally backed mortgages. At this stage, repayments can be deferred for a period of 180 days, and the deferral may be extended for a further 180 days if required (CARES Act 4022/3).

The act also blocks all evictions related to federally backed mortgages, as well as tenant evictions from dwellings part of federal schemes (CARES Act 4024).

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Mortgage Forbearance For Coronavirus In Michigan

The Governor of the state of Michigan has not currently announced any provisions for mortgage relief for state residents beyond what is already being offered by the federal government’s CARES Act. At this stage, the state appears to be trusting lenders to “do the right thing” without the need for specific legislation.

The Governor’s office has advised people who anticipate struggling to pay their mortgage to speak to their lender as soon as possible, as many lenders have made independent arrangements to help with mortgages during the period of the pandemic. They have also provided a list of certified counselors to assist borrowers in their negotiations with lenders.

The Michigan Homeowner Assistance Non-Profit Housing Corporation has set up a forgivable loan program called Step Forward that is open to residents of Michigan unable to pay the mortgage on the home in which they are currently residing.

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Evictions And Nonpayment Due To Coronavirus In Michigan

The Governor of Michigan has signed an executive order preventing evictions for the duration of the COVID-19 crisis, including cases where rent or the mortgage cannot be paid. All existing eviction cases have also been put on hold.

The only exception to the eviction moratorium is a person deemed to pose a threat to another person or imminent and severe risk to the property.

The Sheriff’s office is barred from carrying out any activity related to evictions with the exception of the high-risk cases already mentioned.

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Resources For Tenants During Coronavirus In Michigan

In Michigan, a variety of programs have been set up to provide financial assistance to those who are unable to meet their mortgage or rental payments.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is also offering emergency assistance to prevent foreclosures and evictions with a one-off payment of up to $2,000 to cover mortgage payments and property taxes.

Capital Way Area United has also reactivated its Emergency Relief Fund. Tenants can approach the agency for funds for vital expenses, including rent.

Step Forward Michigan has gathered a comprehensive list of other resources that can be approached to help off-set other household expenses.

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Can I Show A Rented Unit In Michigan During Coronavirus?

There are currently no legal restrictions on the normal movement of tenants within Michigan, including the showing of occupied units. However, the showing should not be conceived as a threat of eviction to existing tenants.

Landlords are responsible for the health and safety of tenants and visitors during any showing. They should take appropriate steps according to CDC guidelines, including not showing properties that have a resident in isolation and ensuring social distancing guidelines are followed during showings. Properties should be appropriately sanitized between tenancies.

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