Understanding Housing Terms

Affordable Housing Options

Public Housing: Managed by local housing authorities, public housing provides low-cost housing to eligible low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.

Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program: Offers rental assistance for private market housing. Participants pay a portion of their income towards rent, and the voucher covers the rest.

Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) Properties: Privately owned rental housing for low-income tenants, often with income restrictions and reduced rent.

Tenant Rights and Responsibilities

Michigan Landlord-Tenant Law: Governs the relationship between landlords and tenants, outlining rights and obligations such as lease terms, rent payment, and property maintenance.

Eviction Protections: Tenants have the right to a legal eviction process, which includes proper notice and a court hearing. Illegal evictions are prohibited.

Fair Housing Laws: Protect against discrimination in housing based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, and disability.

Homelessness Resources

Emergency Shelters: Provide temporary housing and support services for individuals and families experiencing homelessness.

Transitional Housing: Offers longer-term housing solutions and support services to help individuals transition to permanent housing.

Homelessness Prevention Programs: Provide financial assistance and support services to prevent eviction and keep people housed.

Utility Assistance

Programs like the State Emergency Relief (SER) and The Heat and Warmth Fund (THAW) offer financial assistance to help low-income households pay utility bills and avoid shutoffs.

Housing Rehabilitation Programs

Provide funding and support for low-income homeowners to make necessary repairs and improvements to their homes. Programs may cover structural repairs, energy efficiency upgrades, and accessibility modifications.