Jessica Mathews / news@whmi.com


The state has reached an agreement with the property manager of a local apartment complex over water service issues.

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel says an agreement was reached with MRD Apartments to avoid potential litigation related to allegations that tenants of Prentis Estates Apartments in Howell experienced recurring low water pressure and temperature issues due to a malfunction with the water softener system.

The Department of Attorney General conducted an informal investigation into whether the Michigan Consumer Protection Act had been violated.

The Assurance of Voluntary Compliance was filed last month in the 30th Judicial Circuit Court in Ingham County.

MRD Apartments, the property manager for Prentis Estates, was the subject of the inquiry by the Department following consumer complaints from tenants alleging they were experiencing ongoing low water pressure and temperature issues in March of 2025 despite submitting multiple work orders.

Following the Department’s inquiry, repairs were said to be completed to the water softener system in April of 2025, and each apartment unit of the affected building received a $500 rent credit.

As part of the agreement, the AG says MRD Apartments has agreed to improve communication with tenants in the event of future issues affecting essential services. In addition, tenants who filed complaints with the Department will receive an additional $200 rent credit.

Nessel said “Property managers are required to provide essential services, including reliable access to water. When they don’t, my office is here to help Michigan consumers receive the basic services they are entitled to and deserve.”

Michigan consumers who suspect consumer protection violations by other companies are encouraged to contact the Department of Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Team at:

Consumer Protection Team P.O. Box 30213 Lansing, MI 48909; 517-335-7599 or Toll-free: 877-765-8388.