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HB 4992

Housing: landlord and tenants; methods of communication between landlords and tenants; update. Amends secs. 3, 9, 10, 11, 12 & 13 of 1972 PA 348 (MCL 554.603 et seq.).

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Brenda Carter and 16 co-sponsors

Michigan bill modernizes landlord-tenant communication laws to include email and digital methods, replacing outdated 1972 rules requiring only physical notices.

bill electronically reproduced 09/18/2025
#communications:internet #communications:telecommunications #housing:landlordandtenants
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Bill Summary · HB 4992

Legislative bill overview

HB 4992 modernizes Michigan's landlord-tenant communication requirements by updating the 1972 Residential Tenancies Act to reflect contemporary communication methods. The bill amends six sections of the law governing how landlords and tenants must legally communicate regarding notices, rent payments, and other rental agreement matters.

Why is this important

Current Michigan law was written before email, text messaging, and digital platforms existed, creating practical gaps between legal requirements and how people actually conduct business. Updating these provisions could reduce disputes over whether notices were properly delivered, protect both parties by allowing documented electronic communication, and streamline routine rental transactions.

Potential points of contention

  • Default communication method concerns: Determining which electronic methods (email, text, app-based) count as "valid" could create new disputes if standards aren't clearly defined, potentially disadvantaging tenants without reliable technology access
  • Proof of delivery standards: Electronic communication requires clear documentation rules—who bears responsibility for confirming receipt, and what happens if a tenant claims they didn't see a digital notice?
  • Digital divide equity: Allowing electronic-only communication could exclude elderly tenants or those without consistent internet access unless the bill includes safeguards requiring alternative methods remain available

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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