Contractors and Repair Shops in Michigan

People who, for pay, repair, alter, add to or improve residential structures (residential maintenance and alteration contractors) or build homes (residential builders) must be licensed by the state. Exemptions include owners working on their own property and projects under $600. Working without a required license is a misdemeanor with a fine of $5,000 to $25,000 and possible jail time.

Under the Motor Vehicle Service and Repair Act, a repair facility must give the customer a written estimate before starting work. The customer's consent (written or oral) is needed before charging more than the estimate, except that, unless the customer specifically asks otherwise, consent is not required when the overage is no more than 10% or $50, whichever is less. The facility must return replaced parts to the customer when the work is done, except for parts exempted for size or weight, parts that must go back to a manufacturer under a warranty or exchange, and fuel tanks. When the vehicle is returned, the customer must get a written statement listing the repairs, estimated and actual costs, replaced parts and their condition, and the mechanics' names.