The Ann Arbor City Council passed an ordinance to amend Chapter 105 of the Ann Arbor Housing Code, abolishing hidden fees imposed before and during tenancy. The bill was introduced Jan. 20 and passed into law Feb. 5, requiring landlords to include mandatory tenancy fees — like administrative or processing charges — directly in the base price of rent.
These unavoidable charges are often not included in rent, making housing appear cheaper than the actual cost. Utilities, security deposits and extra charges for parking spots and being locked out can still remain separate from rent.
Ann Arbor established the Renters Commission in 2021 to inform councilmembers and administrators on issues specifically affecting renters. In an interview with the Michigan Daily, Councilmember Travis Radina, D-Ward 3, said preserving the rights of Ann Arbor renters is a primary focus of his on the council…