‘It’s a living nightmare’: Michigan renters say they’ve endured water shut-offs for months — and even when it’s on, it’s not safe to drink. And then their water bills spiked inexplicably

‘It’s just a shame when you try to live your normal life and you can’t’

The issues started in July 2024, says Bangs, after Essential Property Management took over the 129-unit complex. Since then, he says the water has sometimes been shut off with no warning.

Starting March 5, residents were told the water would be turned off every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Bangs says it often stays off until after 6 p.m.

To deal with the shut-offs, the management company provided two porta-potties for residents to use. But Bangs says that’s not a real solution, especially for his partner, who has a compromised immune system after being treated for cancer.

Adding to their frustration, the couple’s water and sewer bill spiked to around $90 a month, even with days when there was no water at all.

“That makes no sense,” Bangs said. “Don’t make people pay for water when you’re cutting it off on them.”

Determined to get answers, he gathered signatures for a petition, requested master water bills from the city and tried to contact Essential Property Management. But at one point, the company’s phone number was disconnected.

That’s when Bangs contacted WXYZ. After reporters got involved, the company restored its phone service and issued a statement.

“All repairs have been appropriately permitted through the City’s building department and have been undertaken incrementally, with advance notice and controlled, short-term water shutoffs provided to residents. We are pleased to be making these necessary improvements, especially given our involvement with this property only began in July 2024,” said CEO Todd Rodgers in the statement.

Rodgers also said residents are billed based on actual water usage from city records, and encouraged tenants to contact management with any concerns.

Bangs says the response doesn’t go far enough. He believes residents should be reimbursed for the days they couldn't use water, and that filters should have been provided to help deal with the discolored supply.

“It’s just a shame when you try to live your normal life and you can’t,” he said.

Invest in real estate without the headache of being a landlord

Imagine owning a portfolio of thousands of well-managed single family rentals or a collection of cutting-edge industrial warehouses. You can now gain access to a $1B portfolio of income-producing real estate assets designed to deliver long-term growth from the comforts of your couch.

The best part? You don’t have to be a millionaire and can start investing in minutes.

Learn More

Facing a similar struggle? Here's what to do

Under Michigan's Housing Law (MCL 125.472), landlords are legally required to provide running water at all times. The law mandates that every unit have at least one sink with a continuous water supply and that the building be equipped to distribute that water day and night. Long-term or repeated shut-offs may violate this law, even if repairs are underway.

Here’s what tenants can do if they’re facing a similar issue:

• Document everything. Take photos or videos of discolored water, sediment, or lack of pressure. Keep copies of any written notices, bills, or communication from management.

• File a complaint with local officials. In Michigan, residents can contact their local building or code enforcement office. They may conduct an inspection and cite the landlord for violations.

• Contact a tenants’ rights organization or legal aid. Groups like Michigan Legal Help or Lakeshore Legal Aid can help you understand your rights and offer assistance with drafting formal complaints or legal actions.

• Withhold rent — but only legally. In some cases, tenants may be allowed to withhold rent until critical repairs are made, but this must be done by the law. Speak to a legal advisor before taking this step.

• Ask about reimbursement. If you’ve paid for a utility that wasn’t functional, you may be able to request reimbursement or a rent reduction. Again, documentation and communication are key.

• Consider going public if needed. As Bangs did, media attention can sometimes push property managers to act faster, especially if other channels fail.

Safe, running water isn’t a luxury — it’s a basic human right. If landlords don’t provide it, residents have a right to speak up and seek support.