Westland's Rental Property Rules: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles rental property rules a little differently. In Westland, Michigan, there are 2 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Repairs & Habitability

Westland's housing code requires every dwelling, owner-occupied or rented, to be weathertight and rodentproof, structurally sound, and heated to at least 70 degrees.

Key details: Governing sections: §§ 22-401, 22-403. Min. heat standard: 70°F at -10°F outside. Enforcement: Building Dept. director, written notice. Appeal: Enforcement Appeal Board hearing.

Failing to keep a dwelling weathertight, rodentproof, and in good repair, or failing to maintain required heating capacity, violates sections 22-401 and 22-403 and can bring a director's notice requiring correction within a set time.

Rental Registration

Every rental dwelling in Westland, Michigan must be registered with the building department, and owners who don't live within 30 miles must name a local responsible agent.

Key details: Registers with: Building department. Non-resident owner rule: Local agent beyond 30 mi. Adopted: Ord. 29-W-5-1, 6-19-06. Fine: $500 civil infraction.

Failure to register is a municipal civil infraction carrying a $500 fine plus court costs under § 22-607; the city also won't issue a rental certificate of compliance.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Westland actively enforces its rental registration requirements.

The Bottom Line

Westland's rental property rules rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Westland is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Westland's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.