Introduction & Consent
Welcome to Michigan Renter. By visiting our website you agree to the practices described in this Privacy Policy. We keep the legal jargon light so renters of all backgrounds can understand exactly what data we collect, why we collect it and how you can stay in control. If you do not agree, please discontinue use of the site.
Information We Collect
We gather two kinds of information: non-personally identifiable data (such as page views, browser type, screen size) and information you deliberately share (for example when you use a feedback form). Server logs automatically record IP address, user-agent, referring URL and timestamp. These help us defend against fraud, measure article popularity and improve page load times.
How We Use Your Information
We use the data we hold to:
- Operate, maintain and secure the website infrastructure.
- Provide analytics on which guides and calculators are most helpful.
- Personalise ads served by Google AdSense so we can keep tools like our Rent Affordability Calculator free.
- Detect and prevent malicious or fraudulent activity.
Example: When you open our Late Rent Fees Calculator, Google Analytics receives an event that a calculator was launched—but it cannot see the dollar numbers you type.
Cookies & Tracking Technologies
We use first-party cookies for basic site functions and third-party cookies for analytics and advertising. Below is a transparent breakdown:
| Cookie Name | Purpose | Expiry |
|---|---|---|
| user_preferences | Stores font size & accessibility toggles | 1 year |
| cookie_consent | Remembers your cookie banner choice | 6 months |
| _ga | Google Analytics visitor identifier | 2 years |
| _gid | Google Analytics session stats | 24 hours |
| adsense_survey | Google AdSense frequency-capping | 13 months |
| ad_personalization | Determines whether tailored ads are shown | 2 months |
Third-Party Services We Rely On
We partner with a few trusted providers. Click to visit their policies or opt-out pages:
- Google Analytics – anonymised traffic metrics. Opt-out with the browser add-on.
- Google AdSense – contextual and personalised advertisement delivery. Manage your ad choices at Google Ad Settings.
- Cloudflare – content delivery and firewall protection; sees IP addresses to block malicious traffic.
Data Sharing & Disclosure
We never sell your information. We share data only:
- With service partners listed above, to run core features.
- If required by law or court order.
- To investigate or prevent suspected fraud, spam or security incidents.
Should a legal enquiry arise, we may consult counsel via our Tenant Attorney Directory.
Data Retention & Security Measures
Server logs are retained for up to 12 months, then automatically purged. Key security layers include:
- HTTPS encryption across all pages.
- Firewall and bot-mitigation services.
- Access-controlled file storage on non-web-accessible paths.
No rental application forms are stored because Michigan Renter is an informational resource only.
Your Choices & Controls
You remain in the driver’s seat. Below are concrete ways to limit or erase data:
- Adjust browser settings to block or delete cookies.
- Use Google’s Ad Personalization dashboard.
- Enable the “Do Not Track” signal (we honour it for ad personalisation).
- Click “Clear Site Cookies” below to wipe all Michigan Renter cookies instantly.
Children’s Privacy
Michigan Renter does not knowingly collect data from children under 13. If you believe a minor has provided personal information, please email us and we will delete it promptly.
Changes to This Policy
We may update this policy to reflect new legal or operational requirements. Major changes will appear as an on-site banner for at least 7 days.
Contact Information
For privacy questions, email us at support@michiganrenter.com. We aim to respond within 5 business days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Last updated: July 2025