Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in Michigan

Landlord tenant issue

I have been renting from the same landlod for over 5yrs in a single family home. I have 2 boys and this weekend I bought a basket ball net free stand and they were outside playing while my landlord showed up unanounced, and told me my childern cannot play basket ball at the house because it will ruin the property and if I didn't like he will evict me. Can he do this?

I have never been late on rent or had any other issue with him, this is not stated in the lease agreement either; furthermore I take care of the lawn or any other maintence around the house not him.


Asked on 5/27/08, 10:53 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Audra Arndt Audra A. Arndt & Associates, PLLC

Re: Landlord tenant issue

Generally landlords or property owners have discretion as to what fixtures or equipment can be put on their property, and what events or activities occur. However, you should be able to work out a resolution. For example, since the basketball hoop is freestanding and not permanent, you can offer to put it away when not in use and certainly when it is winter out.

The mere "act" of playing basketball should not be restricted (except perhaps late at night due to "quiet time" hours), as this is not a hazard to anyone or illegal - it is simply recreational for your children (same thing as if they were pulling a wagon down the side walk or playing catch).

Try to work something out amicably. Since you have been a good tenant for 5 years, the landlord should work with you on this.

If you need my assistance, please feel free to contact me. Hopefully the landlord will respond to you in a reasonable manner (maybe he was just having a bad day), and you will not have to send a letter from a lawyer.

Thank you, and good luck.

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Answered on 5/27/08, 11:03 am


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