Michigan Renter Resources Directory

Trusted Hotlines, Grants & More—curated and updated for 2025.

Tenant phones Michigan assistance hotline seeking rental help

Scrolling endless search-engine results is exhausting—especially when you need help today. We hand-check every link below so you can zero in on legitimate phone numbers, application portals, and counseling services that actually serve Michigan renters. Resources are grouped from broad to niche: start with statewide hotlines, then drill down to city code-enforcement or specialty grants.

Use the “Quick-Filter” to type a city, agency name, or toggle between government and nonprofit listings. The list updates instantly—no page reloads—so you can scan through dozens of programs in seconds.

Verify a Non-Profit Before You Share Data
  • Search the IRS Tax-Exempt Org tool.
  • Look for “.org” or “.gov” domains.
  • Never pay fees via gift card or crypto.

Statewide Government Agencies

Start here for Michigan-wide complaint hotlines and rental laws. Pro-tip: jot down your account or complaint number—most agencies will ask for it when you follow up.

  1. Document the problem—photos, bills, timeline.
  2. Submit the online/phone complaint & save confirmation.
  3. Follow up within 7–10 business days if you don’t hear back.

Federal Programs Serving MI Renters

Federal agencies oversee funding or complaints that state channels sometimes can’t resolve. Use these links when local remedies stall or when you need grants tied to federal dollars.

Michigan Code-Enforcement Contacts

Wondering what that yellow “Violation” sticker means? A property-maintenance notice usually lists corrective actions and a re-inspection date. Call the office below if your landlord ignores it—bring photos and the notice number.

Spotting Rental-Aid Scams
  • No legit program asks for up-front “processing” fees.
  • Avoid links sent by unsolicited text or social.
  • Check that email addresses end in “.gov” or org domain.

Utility Assistance in Michigan

Michigan’s Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) caps eligibility at 150 % of the federal poverty level. Apply through the MI Bridges portal. Combine LIHEAP with local grants to cover shut-off fees faster.

Compare Michigan Energy-Aid Programs
ProgramWho QualifiesTypical BenefitHow to Apply
THAW≤200 % FPL, past-due billUp to $850 once per yearOnline form + proof of income
Salvation Army HeatShareEmergency shut-off any income$200–$500 grantCall local Corps office
DTE Energy Efficiency KitDTE customersFree LED bulbs & aeratorsRequest kit online

Housing Counseling & Mediation Networks

HUD-certified housing counselors help you set budgets, dispute credit errors, and negotiate payment plans. Here’s a simple game-plan:

  1. Schedule a free intake call—find agencies near you using the HUD tool.
  2. Gather lease, income proof, and recent bills.
  3. Work with the counselor to draft a 90-day action plan.

Emergency Funds & Specialty Help

Some programs serve specific populations—veterans, seniors, or renters fleeing domestic violence. Combine these with broader grants for faster results.

Case study: Maria left an unsafe apartment. She used SAFELINK to cover first-month rent at a new address, plus DTE Energy Efficiency Kit to trim her utility bill—two programs working in tandem.

Frequently Asked Questions

Check that the website uses HTTPS, search the organization in the IRS Tax-Exempt database, and review complaints with the Attorney General Consumer Protection Division. Never pay “application fees” via gift cards or wire transfer.

Yes. LIHEAP, THAW, and local township funds often “stack.” Always disclose existing aid on new applications to avoid delays, and keep copies of award letters for providers.

Call the township clerk for the local code-enforcement officer. If there is none, escalate to the county building department. Our report-landlord guide outlines next steps.

Bring your lease, last two pay stubs, recent utility bills, ID, and any notice letters. Organizing documents speeds up the action plan and shows lenders you’re serious.

Not initially. THAW pays the utility provider directly, but you may need the landlord’s W-9 if grant money is issued as a rent credit.

Listings are provided for convenience, not endorsement—confirm eligibility and terms with each provider.