As Michigan nears 2021’s summer months, potential celebrations have been dampened by a global pandemic that began over one year ago. By March 2020, most of the U.S. was closing schools and businesses to stave off the virus. 

Property owners and tenants have struggled to adjust to the pandemic in the absence of substantial federal assistance. Thousands in the state are still confused about their options while their finances worsen by the day. In this blog, we briefly discuss the legal options for tenants and housing providers struggling during the pandemic. 

Challenges For Housing Providers

For landlords, the past year has been confusing and tumultuous. Given the huge influx of layoffs due to COVID-19, tenants have struggled to (or been unable to) pay rent. This affects many landlords’ ability to generate revenue, which can be especially ruinous for smaller owners.

Landlords have regained the ability to evict tenants, though there were workarounds even during the executive order. In addition, there are programs designed to help tenants and landlords. One such program is the Eviction Diversion Program that provides lump-sum payments to landlords in exchange for keeping tenants in their homes. 

If you are unsure about your current options as a housing provider, consider consulting with an attorney specializing in rental law.

Options For Tenants 

While landlords have been hit hard by the pandemic, it is likely no venture to say that tenants have fared much worse. Thousands of Michigan tenants have accrued months of unpaid rent, and many are on the verge of homelessness. 

Towards the beginning of the pandemic, Governor Whitmer created an executive order to halt evictions until July 2020. That was later extended to August before it expired. In addition, the eviction process in Michigan is deeply flawed, with judges not even telling tenants their options in court. 

However, help may be on the way. As we have noted above, the MEDC and Michigan Department of the Treasury are crafting applications for additional relief for business owners and individual workers. This may indirectly help those renting who are struggling. 

In addition, the CDC moratorium on evictions may prevent you from being evicted as well, though it may not protect some people from eviction proceedings. This moratorium has been extended to June 30, 2021.

If you believe you may be unrightfully removed from your residence, be sure to consult a lawyer to see if you have a strong case. 

News To Look For

Regardless of if you are a housing provider or a tenant, you will need to keep your eye out for news regarding COVID-19 and rental relief. Governor Whitmer’s office provides consistent updates regarding their policies. Additionally, keeping a pulse on the Michigan legislature could give you advance notice of new policies, policy extensions, or additional funding. 

Trust KGP Law For the Legal Aid You Deserve

At KGP Law, we staff professionals who are up-to-date on every development in the COVID era. Our legal representation is well-equipped to handle your case, no matter the complexity. Contact us today to discuss the details of your case with an attorney.