Landlord Question and Answer Forum

There was a recent heavy rain that flooded Michigan, and the tenant now tells me that the basement is flooded and the carpet was damaged. The lease doesn't say anything regarding such disasters, but to does say that the landlord is responsible for all repairs (which refer to appliances, major wear and tear, etc). I don't have a flood insurance either. Any advice what to do? Thank you.

I found this in a Michigan Pamphlet. Good Luck "Repair and maintenance problems range from things that are merely annoying to things that pose an immediate threat to health and safety. Both the landlord and the tenant have some responsibility for maintenance. There are three types of maintenance problems: 1. Emergencies require action within 24 hours and pose an immediate threat to the health and safety of the occupant(s)—gas leak, flooding, defective furnace, or major roof damage;"

Posted by Clark F, OK on Tuesday, August 19, 2014

The landlord is relieved of the duty to repair and comply, if the tenant’s willful or irresponsible conduct or lack of conduct has caused the disrepair or violation of health or safety laws.

Posted by Clark F, OK on Tuesday, August 19, 2014

If flood repair is listed on the lease (which you said it isn't) you do not have to fix it. However, flooding can lead to mold, and mold can lead to a lawsuit. I would investigate the damage and find the cheapest way to go about fixing it. It is better to be safe than sorry. I know it is an inconvenience but now you know the basement leaks and can avoid this issue in the future.

Posted by Britanica M, OH on Friday, August 29, 2014