Landlord-Tenant Law Helpline:
Free Support and Resources

A Landlord-Tenant Law Helpline is a critical resource for both renters and property owners who need fast, reliable, and affordable guidance regarding housing disputes. These helplines are typically operated by legal aid organizations, bar associations, or state agencies, and they provide free or low-cost legal advice, referrals, and educational resources.

What is the Landlord-Tenant Law Helpline?

The Landlord-Tenant Law Helpline is a service that connects residents with trained professionals who can:

• Answer questions about rental agreements, leases, and housing laws.
  
  

• Help tenants understand their rights and responsibilities.
  
  

• Assist landlords with legal compliance in evictions and rent collection.
  
  

• Offer referrals to attorneys or legal aid programs for cases requiring representation.
  
  

• Provide self-help guides, court forms, and instructions for housing disputes.
  
  

Unlike hiring a private attorney, these helplines are often free for low-income individuals and available statewide or county-specific.

When to Use a Landlord-Tenant Helpline

Common situations where residents call include:

1. Eviction Notices

• Understanding 7-day or 30-day notices.
  
  

• Learning defenses against wrongful or illegal evictions.
  
  

• Getting referrals to emergency housing assistance.
  
  

2. Unsafe Living Conditions

• Reporting landlords who fail to repair heating, plumbing, or electrical systems.
  
  

• Guidance on rent escrow and repair-and-deduct laws.
  
  

• Filing complaints with housing inspectors.
  
  

3. Security Deposit Disputes

• Tenants unsure of their rights when deposits are withheld.
  
  

• Landlords seeking clarification on Michigan’s 30-day return law.
  
  

4. Lease Violations

• Breaking a lease early due to job relocation, safety, or military service.
  
  

• Landlords responding to tenant damage or illegal activity.
  
  

5. Housing Discrimination

• Tenants who believe they were discriminated against based on race, gender, disability, or family status.
  
  

• Information on filing complaints with the Michigan Department of Civil Rights or HUD.
  
  

Benefits of a Landlord-Tenant Law Helpline

• Immediate support without waiting weeks for an attorney appointment.
  
  

• Cost savings for tenants and landlords unable to afford private lawyers.
  
  

• Clarity on complex housing laws explained in plain language.
  
  

• Referrals to legal aid, mediation services, or pro bono attorneys.
  
  

• Peace of mind in stressful housing situations.
  
  

Where to Find a Landlord-Tenant Helpline

1. Michigan Legal Help

• Online resources with free forms, guides, and instructions.
  
  

• Offers a live chat feature for housing-related questions.
  
  

2. Lakeshore Legal Aid Tenant Hotline

• Provides phone-based assistance for tenants facing eviction or housing issues.
  
  

• Covers multiple counties across Michigan.
  
  

3. Legal Aid and Defender Association (LADA)

• Serves Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb Counties.
  
  

• Offers housing hotlines, intake services, and representation.
  
  

4. Michigan State Bar Pro Bono Helpline

• Matches callers with volunteer attorneys for landlord-tenant disputes.
  
  

• Provides guidance on rent, leases, and eviction laws.
  
  

5. County Housing Courts

• Many county courts operate tenant assistance hotlines.
  
  

• Offer free workshops and direct referrals for legal help.
  
  

How to Prepare Before Calling a Helpline

To get the most out of your call, have the following ready:

• Lease or rental agreement.
  
  

• Eviction notices or court paperwork.
  
  

• Receipts, photos, or communication records with your landlord/tenant.
  
  

• Proof of income if applying for free legal aid.
  
  

Being organized allows the helpline to quickly assess your situation and provide tailored support.

Conclusion

The Landlord-Tenant Law Helpline is an invaluable tool for renters and landlords seeking quick, affordable, and reliable housing guidance. Whether you’re facing an eviction, disputing a deposit, or navigating lease issues, these hotlines provide expert legal support and connections to local resources. With Michigan’s strong network of legal aid programs and statewide hotlines, residents have the opportunity to resolve disputes and protect their housing rights without unnecessary stress or cost.