Benton Harbor, MI Code of Ordinances Ch. 20 Art. V Landlord-Tenant Code §§ 20-88 – 20-164 § 20-93
Construction and modification
Operative Text
The language in all parts of this article shall be construed simply, according to its fair meaning, and not strictly for or against landlord or tenant. The various rights and obligations contained in ;his article shall be construed as cumulative. Each obligation shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto, as well as their respective heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assignees. This article constitutes a legal agreement between the parties and cannot be altered, changed, modified or added to except in a separate agreement signed by both parties and publicly notarized, and where such alterations, changes, modifications or additions are authorized by this article. (Ord. of 6-9-77, § 1.05)
Section 20-93 of the Benton Harbor Landlord-Tenant Code establishes how the article's language is to be read and applied: neutrally, without favoring either side, and with all rights and duties treated as building on one another rather than being mutually exclusive. The obligations created by the article bind not only the original landlord and tenant but also their heirs, successors, and assignees. Any changes to the terms of the agreement must be made in a separate, notarized written document signed by both parties, and only where the article itself permits such modifications.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under § 20-93, property owners and managers should be aware that the Benton Harbor Landlord-Tenant Code is interpreted neutrally — no provision is read to favor the landlord's position by default. Compliant operators generally document any agreed-upon modifications to rental terms in a separate written agreement that is signed by both parties and publicly notarized, and only where the article authorizes such changes. Because obligations under the article also bind successors and assignees, landlords who transfer ownership or management responsibilities typically ensure that new parties are made aware of existing obligations.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 20-93 of the Benton Harbor Landlord-Tenant Code means that the rules in the article are meant to be read fairly, without tilting toward the landlord, and that all of your rights under the article work together rather than canceling each other out. If a landlord claims that a verbal agreement or an informal written note changed your rights under the code, § 20-93 provides that modifications are only valid when made in a separate, notarized document signed by both parties and permitted by the article itself. Tenants who believe their rights under this article have been improperly altered may wish to consult a local tenant-rights organization or legal aid office for general information about their options.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 14, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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