Michigan Landlord-Tenant Law
The rules for renting in Michigan — security deposits, eviction, ending a lease, repairs and rent — with the statute or official page behind every answer.
Quick answers for Michigan
- Security deposit limit
- 1.5 months' rent MCL 554.602
- Deposit return deadline
- 30 days after the tenant's occupancy ends: landlord must mail an itemized notice of damages with the balance, or return the full deposit. If the landlord wants to keep any disputed amount it must sue within 45 days after termination of occupancy. MCL 554.609; MCL 554.610; MCL 554.613
- Notice for unpaid rent
- 7 days: written demand for possession (or written notice to quit) for nonpayment of rent before filing MCL 600.5714(1)(a); MCL 554.134(2); MCL 600.5716; MCL 600.5718
- Ending a month-to-month lease
- Either party: one month's notice, or if rent is payable at intervals shorter than 3 months, notice equal to the rent-payment interval (e.g., 1 week for week-to-week). Termination date need not coincide with a rent period. Year-to-year tenancy: notice ends tenancy 1 year after service. MCL 554.134(1),(3)
- Landlord entry notice
- No statute — no Michigan statute sets a notice period or rules for landlord entry; entry is governed by the lease. MCL 600.2918(3)(b) (no general entry statute)
- Rent control / increase limits
- Statewide preemption: local governments may not adopt, maintain, or enforce any ordinance or resolution that would have the effect of controlling rent on private residential property. No statewide rent cap. MCL 123.411
Last verified against official sources: 2026-10-23
Security Deposits in Michigan
| Security deposit limit | 1.5 months' rent Security deposit 'shall not exceed 1 1/2 months' rent.' A 'security deposit' includes any refundable fee or deposit and any prepaid rent other than the first month's rent (MCL 554.601(d), per the Legislature's Practical Guide, Rev. 3/2026). Landlord must give a written notice within 14 days after the tenant takes possession (landlord's name/address, where the deposit is held or bond info, and the 4-day forwarding-address warning) or the tenant is relieved of the forwarding-address duty (MCL 554.603). Source: MCL 554.602 |
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| Deposit return deadline | 30 days after the tenant's occupancy ends: landlord must mail an itemized notice of damages with the balance, or return the full deposit. If the landlord wants to keep any disputed amount it must sue within 45 days after termination of occupancy. Tenant must give a written forwarding address within 4 days after moving out; if not, landlord is relieved of the notice-of-damages duty but the tenant's claim to the deposit is preserved (MCL 554.611). Failure to send the notice within 30 days is treated as the landlord's agreement that no damages are due, and the full deposit must be remitted immediately (MCL 554.610). NEW: 2026 PA 102 (SB 22 of 2025, immediate effect Sept. 21, 2026) amended MCL 554.609 to let the landlord send the balance by direct deposit/electronic transfer to a bank account or internet/mobile payment account or app instead of a check or money order; the electronic deposit must be made within 10 days after mailing the notice of damages. |
| Itemized deductions | Itemized notice of damages, mailed within 30 days after occupancy ends, listing each claimed damage, the estimated cost of repair for each item, and the amounts and bases for the charges, plus payment of any balance. Must include a bold notice (12-point boldface, at least 4 points larger than body text) that the tenant must respond by mail within 7 days or forfeit the amount claimed. Tenant has 7 days after receipt to respond by ordinary mail, stating in detail agreement or disagreement with each item (MCL 554.612). Landlord may not charge damages already recorded on a prior tenant's termination inventory checklist. Move-in and move-out inventory checklists are mandatory where a deposit is required; tenant gets 2 blank checklists and returns one within 7 days of possession (MCL 554.608). |
| Interest on deposits | No statutory interest requirement The act contains no interest-on-deposit requirement. Deposits must be kept in a regulated financial institution, unless the landlord files a cash or surety bond with the Secretary of State (covering all deposits up to $50,000 plus 25% of any amount above $50,000), in which case the landlord may use the money for any purpose. Source: MCL 554.604 |
| Penalty for withholding | Double the amount of the deposit retained, and the landlord waives all claimed damages, if the landlord fails to comply fully with MCL 554.613 Generally the landlord may not keep any disputed part of the deposit without first obtaining a money judgment (or filing proof of inability to serve the tenant), except where the tenant gave no forwarding address, did not respond to the notice of damages, agreed in writing, or the claim is solely for unpaid rent for a period the tenant had possession (MCL 554.613(1)). Source: MCL 554.613(2); MCL 554.610 |
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Eviction in Michigan
| Notice for unpaid rent | 7 days: written demand for possession (or written notice to quit) for nonpayment of rent before filing Landlord may file summary proceedings if the tenant holds over after failing to pay rent due within 7 days after a written demand for possession; accelerated rent from a lease breach does not count as rent due. MCL 554.134(2) separately allows a 7-day written notice to quit for nonpayment. A demand for possession must be in writing, state the reasons and the amount due, and be served personally, on a suitable household member at the premises, by first-class mail (service date = next regular mail delivery day), or electronically if the tenant consented in writing (MCL 600.5718; Practical Guide Q32-33). |
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| Notice for lease violations | No single statutory period. If the lease allows termination for the violation, the lease's notice term controls; for a month-to-month or no-written-lease tenancy, a notice to quit of one rental period (generally 1 month) is used. Shorter statutory periods apply to certain conduct: 24 hours (drug activity with lease clause and police report), 7 days (serious continuing health hazard or extensive continuing physical damage; violence/threats with police notified). Summary proceedings may follow termination under a lease power, expiration of the term, or a notice to quit (MCL 600.5714(1)(c)). A tenancy at will (including month-to-month) is ended by one month's notice, or notice equal to the rent interval if rent is paid more often (MCL 554.134(1): https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-554-134). Statutory short periods: 24 hours for drug activity with a lease clause and a police report (600.5714(1)(b); 554.134(4)); 7 days to surrender or repair for a serious continuing health hazard or extensive damage (600.5714(1)(d)); 7 days for violence or threats with police notified (600.5714(1)(e)). The Legislature's Practical Guide (Rev. 3/2026, Q31) says notice periods generally range from 24 hours to 30 days. Michigan has no statutory right-to-cure period for general lease violations. |
| Lockouts & utility shutoffs | Self-help eviction is prohibited. Landlord may not use force or threats, remove/retain/destroy the tenant's property, change locks without immediately providing keys, board up, remove doors/windows/locks, interrupt essential services (heat, running water, hot water, electric, gas) amounting to constructive eviction, or introduce noise/odor/nuisance. Tenant may recover actual damages or $200, whichever is greater, for each occurrence, plus possession; unlawful forcible ejection allows 3 times actual damages or $200, whichever is greater. Exceptions: acts under court order; temporary interference for needed repairs/inspection; good-faith belief after diligent inquiry that the tenant abandoned with current rent unpaid; a detailed deceased-tenant procedure (10-day notice, 18 days after death). Rights cannot be waived. Tenant may recover possession via summary proceedings under MCL 600.5714(1)(f) or seek an injunction in circuit court; possession action must be commenced within 90 days and damages action within 1 year. Last amended 2019 PA 41. Source: MCL 600.2918(1)-(2) |
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Notice to Vacate in Michigan
| Ending a month-to-month lease | Either party: one month's notice, or if rent is payable at intervals shorter than 3 months, notice equal to the rent-payment interval (e.g., 1 week for week-to-week). Termination date need not coincide with a rent period. Year-to-year tenancy: notice ends tenancy 1 year after service. Same period for landlord and tenant. Seniors / persons incapable of independent living who have occupied for more than 13 months have a statutory 60-day early-termination right in leases entered/renewed after June 15, 1995 (MCL 554.601a, per Practical Guide Q43). Source: MCL 554.134(1),(3) |
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Landlord Entry in Michigan
| Landlord entry notice | No statute — no Michigan statute sets a notice period or rules for landlord entry; entry is governed by the lease. The anti-lockout statute allows only a temporary interruption of possession for necessary repairs or inspection 'as provided by law' (MCL 600.2918(3)(b)); other interference with a tenant's possession can cost the landlord actual damages or $200, whichever is greater, for each occurrence (600.2918(2)). Check the lease for entry terms. |
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Repairs & Habitability in Michigan
| Repair and deduct | Allowed under common law (no statute): after reasonable (preferably written) notice to the landlord, a tenant may make necessary repairs and deduct the cost from rent; keep all receipts. Practical Guide Q26 lists 'Making the repairs themselves and deducting the cost of the repairs from the rent' as a tenant option. Michigan Legal Help (https://michiganlegalhelp.org/resources/housing/tenant-rights-and-responsibilities) also describes it. MCL 554.139 (https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-554-139) itself does not set out remedies. Pending: SB 19-21 of 2025 (would address tenant repair rights) were on the Senate's order of third reading as of 6/17/2025 with no further action shown; not law. |
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| Withholding rent | Allowed under common law (no statute): tenant may withhold rent (ideally paid into a separate escrow account, with written notice to the landlord) when the landlord breaches the duty to repair. Landlord breach and escrowed rent are statutory defenses to a nonpayment eviction. MCL 600.5720(1)(f): no judgment for possession for nonpayment if the landlord breached a lease provision that excuses rent; (1)(g): rent paid into escrow, under court order, or to a receiver. Michigan Legal Help warns escrow may prompt the landlord to file an eviction case and the tenant must be ready to prove the repairs were necessary. If trial is delayed more than 7 days after the first hearing, the court can order rent paid into escrow (Michigan Legal Help, Going to Court). Practical Guide Q26: https://www.legislature.mi.gov/publications/tenantlandlord.pdf |
| Retaliation protection | Defense to eviction: no judgment for possession if termination was intended primarily as a penalty for the tenant's attempt to enforce lease or legal rights, complaint to a government authority about a health/safety code violation, or other lawful tenancy-related act (including joining a tenant organization), or if the landlord added lease obligations as such a penalty. Presumption of retaliation if the tenant's protected action through a court or government agency occurred within 90 days before the eviction case began and was not dismissed/denied. Within the 90-day window the landlord must prove by a preponderance that the termination was not retaliatory; if the protected act was more than 90 days before filing (or was decided against the tenant), the presumption runs the other way and the tenant bears the burden. Michigan's statute is a defense in summary proceedings rather than a separate damages remedy. |
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Rent Increases & Late Fees in Michigan
| Rent control / increase limits | Statewide preemption: local governments may not adopt, maintain, or enforce any ordinance or resolution that would have the effect of controlling rent on private residential property. No statewide rent cap. Exceptions: property in which the local unit has an ownership interest, and plans using voluntary incentives/agreements to increase the supply of moderate- or low-cost private housing. Last amended 2018 PA 585 (eff. Mar. 28, 2019). Source: MCL 123.411 |
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| Late fees | No statutory cap The Legislature's Practical Guide for Tenants & Landlords (Rev. 3/2026, Q12): a landlord may generally charge a late fee, but it must be reasonable and proportionate to the actual damages suffered from the late payment. No statutory grace period. Source: None (common law) |
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Breaking a Lease in Michigan
| Ending a lease: domestic violence | A tenant with a reasonable fear of present danger to the tenant or the tenant's child from domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking is released from rent. The tenant must send written notice of intent to seek release by certified mail, with a written statement of that fear and one qualifying document. Qualifying documents: a valid personal protection order (or similar order), a probation, parole or conditional release order with no-contact conditions, a police report that resulted in charges (charges filed within 14 days, or older charges with a verifiable present threat), or a qualified third party's verified report in the statutory form. Liability: rent ends no later than the first day of the second month that rent is due after notice, and not before the tenant moves out. Prepaid amounts, such as first and last month's rent, are not refunded, and the deposit may still be withheld as allowed by law. The lease must include, or the landlord must post or deliver, the statutory notice of this right. Source: MCL 554.601b |
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| Ending a lease: military, medical, death | Leases must let a tenant who has lived in the unit more than 13 months end the lease with 60 days' written notice if the tenant (a) becomes eligible during the lease term for subsidized senior citizen housing and gives written proof, or (b) becomes unable to live independently, as certified by a physician in a notarized statement. This applies to leases entered into, renewed or renegotiated after June 15, 1995. No state military lease-break statute beyond the federal SCRA was checked. No tenant-death statute was found. Source: MCL 554.601a |
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Squatters & Abandoned Property in Michigan
| Squatters / unauthorized occupants | Two routes. (1) Court: summary proceedings are available against a person who entered by force, holds possession by force after a peaceable entry, or 'comes into possession of premises by trespass without color of title or other possessory interest.' After a judgment for possession, the court may issue the writ of restitution immediately if trespass without color of title is pleaded and proved with notice; normally there is a 10-day wait. (2) Self-help: if the occupant came in by forcible entry, holds by force, or is a trespasser without color of title, the owner or agent may enter the premises. The peaceable-entry requirement does not apply, but assault and battery (MCL 750.81-750.90g) remain prohibited. No affidavit-based police removal statute. MCL 600.5711: https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-600-5711; MCL 600.5744: https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-600-5744 |
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| Belongings left behind | No storage or notice statute for belongings left behind. At eviction, the writ directs the officer to remove all occupants and personal property and either leave the property in an area open to the public or in the public right-of-way, or deliver it to the sheriff if the sheriff allows. The officer serving the writ decides whether the premises and property are abandoned. No statute was found for property left after a voluntary move-out. Common law and the lease govern that. Source: MCL 600.5744(1)-(2) |
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Section 8, Records & Right to Counsel in Michigan
| Section 8 / source of income | Yes, effective Apr. 2, 2025. A landlord may not deny or end a tenancy, set different terms, fees or rent, misstate availability, advertise a preference, or try to discourage a tenant because of source of income, including vouchers and subsidies. If the landlord has an income threshold, it must count vouchers and subsidies when applying it (this does not cover emergency rental assistance). Exempt: landlords who, together with related entities, own fewer than 5 rental units in Michigan. The definition of 'source of income' (in the definitions section of Act 348 of 1972) was not separately reviewed. Source: MCL 554.601c (2024 PA 178) |
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| Eviction record sealing | No. Michigan has no statute sealing or expunging eviction records. Two 2025 bills are pending: SB 374 (sealing, and automatic expungement 3 years after a final judgment for possession), placed on Senate third reading on Mar. 3, 2026; and HB 4984 (records nonpublic until a judgment for possession), in the House Regulatory Reform committee since Sept. 2025. Neither has been enacted as of this check. Court-rule changes (MCR 4.201 / MCR 8.119) on nonpublic eviction records were not verified. HB 4984: https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Bills/Bill?ObjectName=2025-HB-4984 |
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Mold, Pests, Heat & AC in Michigan
| Mold | No statute — Michigan has no mold disclosure or remediation law. Every residential lease includes statutory covenants that the premises and common areas are fit for their intended use, that the landlord will keep the premises in reasonable repair, and that the landlord will comply with state and local health and safety laws. The exception is disrepair caused by the tenant's willful or irresponsible conduct. Where the Housing Law of Michigan applies, the owner must keep the roof from leaking and drain rainwater so as to avoid dampness in walls and ceilings. An occupant can sue for damages and injunctive relief if unsafe or unsanitary conditions go unabated after notice. MCL 125.471: https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-125-471. The Housing Law applies in cities, villages and townships of 10,000 or more people, but not to single- and two-family homes in places under 100,000 unless locally adopted (MCL 125.401). The § 554.139 covenants may be modified only in leases with a current term of at least 1 year. |
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| Pests & bed bugs | No statute — no state law specifically assigns pest or bed bug treatment or requires disclosure. Infestations fall under the landlord's statutory covenants of fitness and reasonable repair and the duty to comply with health and safety laws, unless the tenant's willful or irresponsible conduct caused the problem. Local housing codes often set specific extermination duties. Where the Housing Law of Michigan applies, occupants can sue the owner over unabated unsanitary conditions after notice (MCL 125.536): https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-125-536. Source: MCL 554.139(1) |
| Heat | No statewide minimum indoor temperature or heating season was found in state statute. Where the Housing Law of Michigan applies, the owner must keep heating, plumbing, ventilation and wiring in good repair. More generally, the landlord's covenants of fitness, reasonable repair and compliance with health and safety laws apply to heating the landlord supplies. Many cities set minimum temperatures in local housing codes. Housing Law coverage depends on municipal population (MCL 125.401): https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-125-401. Source: MCL 125.471; MCL 554.139(1) |
| Air conditioning | No statute — Michigan law does not require landlords to provide air conditioning or set a maximum indoor temperature. If the landlord supplies AC, it falls under the general fitness and repair covenants. Local codes may address cooling equipment. |
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Privacy, Guests & Animals in Michigan
| Cameras & privacy | No landlord-specific statute, but Michigan law is strict. It is a felony to install, place or use in any private place, without the consent of the people entitled to privacy there, a device for observing, recording, transmitting, photographing or eavesdropping. The penalty is up to 2 years and/or $2,000, or up to 5 years for repeat offenses or for distributing the images. A 'private place' is one where a person can reasonably expect to be safe from casual or hostile intrusion or surveillance; places with public access are excluded. Security monitoring in a residence by its owner or principal occupant is allowed unless done for a lewd purpose. Eavesdropping means overhearing or recording private conversation without the permission of ALL participants. Trespassing to conduct surveillance is a misdemeanor. MCL 750.539a: https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-750-539a. Courts have differed on whether a participant may record their own conversation; the all-party definition applies to 'the private discourse of others.' |
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| Guests & occupants | No statute — the lease governs guests, occupancy limits and roommates. Michigan's landlord-tenant statutes don't define guests versus tenants or give roommate rights. Occupancy limits may come from local housing codes or the Housing Law of Michigan where it applies. |
| Service & support animals (state law) | Michigan's Persons with Disabilities Civil Rights Act bars landlords from refusing to rent to, or discriminating in rental terms against, a person because of a disability unrelated to their ability to rent or maintain the property. It also bars discrimination based on use of adaptive devices or aids. Federal Fair Housing Act reasonable-accommodation rules govern emotional support animals, including no pet fees or deposits. State law also makes it a misdemeanor to maliciously harass, injure or interfere with a service animal. No state statute setting housing-specific documentation rules or a misrepresentation penalty was found in the sections checked. MCL 750.502c (public accommodations must permit service animals): https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-750-502c. MCL 750.50a: https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-750-50a. |
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How eviction works in Michigan
Eviction cases are heard in: District court (summary proceedings, called 'Summary Proceedings to Recover Possession of Premises').
- Written notice: demand for possession (7 days nonpayment, health hazard/damage; 24 hours drug activity) or notice to quit (e.g., one rental period / 1 month for month-to-month)
- Landlord files a complaint in district court, attaching the notice and written lease (MCR 4.201(B))
- Summons and complaint served (mailed AND served personally, by certified restricted mail, on a household member, or by posting after diligent attempts) at least 3 days before the trial/appearance date
- First hearing (often a pretrial): tenant answers orally or in writing, raises defenses/counterclaims, may demand a jury; if triable issues exist trial is usually set within about 7-14 days; possible 14-28 day stay for pending rental assistance; tenant who fails to appear may be defaulted
- Judgment for possession (and any money judgment); in nonpayment cases, paying the judgment amount plus costs within the time allowed prevents the order of eviction
- Order of Eviction (writ of restitution) may not issue until 10 days after judgment, except immediate issuance in listed cases (e.g., forcible entry, trespass, serious continuing health hazard, drug-activity cases); landlord must request it within 56 days of judgment
- Removal of the tenant and belongings by a court officer, bailiff, or sheriff/deputy executing the order
Summons sets the appearance/trial within 10 days of issuance and must be served at least 3 days before trial (or, under a local court rule, appearance within 5 days after service). Hearing must occur within 7 days after the appearance/trial date unless a court rule provides otherwise or parties stipulate (MCL 600.5735). Writ may not issue until 10 days after entry of the judgment for possession (MCL 600.5744(5)).
Source: MCL 600.5714; MCL 600.5735; MCL 600.5744; MCR 4.201
What surprises people about Michigan rental law
- Move-in and move-out inventory checklists are mandatory whenever a deposit is collected, and the tenant can request the prior tenant's termination checklist (MCL 554.608, https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-554-608).
- The tenant must give a written forwarding address within 4 days of moving out or the landlord is excused from sending the itemized damages notice (MCL 554.611, https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-554-611).
- A tenant who gets a notice of damages has only 7 days to respond by mail or forfeits the amount claimed (MCL 554.609, 554.612, https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-554-612).
- New Sept. 21, 2026: landlords may return deposit balances electronically (direct deposit, bank transfer, or payment app) within 10 days after mailing the notice of damages (2026 PA 102, MCL 554.609(3), https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Bills/Bill?ObjectName=2025-SB-0022).
- Source-of-income discrimination ban effective April 2, 2025: landlords may not refuse to rent, set different terms, or advertise preferences based on a tenant's lawful source of income (including vouchers/emergency rental assistance); landlords with fewer than 5 rental units in Michigan (counting related entities) are exempt. Remedy: injunction and damages equal to the lesser of actual damages or up to 3 times monthly rent, plus costs and attorney fees (MCL 554.601c added by 2024 PA 178; MCL 554.601d added by 2024 PA 199; https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-554-601c, https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-554-601d).
- Landlords who don't keep deposits in a bank or credit union must post a bond with the Secretary of State covering all deposits up to $50,000 plus 25% of the excess (MCL 554.604, https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-554-604).
- The habitability covenant can be modified by agreement only if the lease's current term is at least 1 year (MCL 554.139, https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-554-139).
- Truth in Renting Act: a lease must include a prescribed notice about the Act, and clauses that waive deposit rights, habitability remedies, jury trial, or the duty to mitigate are void; tenants can recover $250 per action for prohibited provisions or $500 for missing provisions, or actual damages if greater, after the landlord fails to cure (MCL 554.633-554.636; Legislature Practical Guide Q6-Q9, https://www.legislature.mi.gov/publications/tenantlandlord.pdf).
- A 24-hour notice can end a tenancy for drug activity on the premises only if the lease contains such a clause and a formal police report has been filed (MCL 554.134(4), MCL 600.5714(1)(b), https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-600-5714).
Federal law that also applies in Michigan
These federal rules apply on top of Michigan law, mostly to discrimination, servicemembers, survivors and federally assisted housing:
- Fair Housing Act: protected classes, covered housing and exemptions: Save every listing, text and email. A discriminatory ad is illegal even when the landlord's unit is otherwise exempt. More
- Assistance animals (service and emotional support animals) in housing: Ask for the accommodation in writing, keep a copy, and if a disability or the need for the animal is not obvious, offer reliable documentation of it. More
- Servicemembers Civil Relief Act: ending a lease early: Deliver the notice and orders by a method you can prove, such as certified mail with return receipt, and keep copies. More
- Servicemembers Civil Relief Act: eviction protection: Tell the court in writing that you or your spouse are on active duty and ask for an SCRA stay. More
- VAWA housing protections: Ask the landlord or housing authority for its VAWA emergency transfer plan and request a transfer in writing. More
- CARES Act 30-day notice to vacate (covered dwellings): If your building has a federally backed mortgage or federal subsidy and you received less than 30 days' notice to vacate, raise the CARES Act as a defense. More
- HUD 30-day nonpayment notice (public housing and project-based Section 8): If you pay the full amount listed in the notice within 30 days, the landlord cannot file for eviction over that rent. More
- Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) basics for private landlords: If a voucher landlord asks for 'side payments' above your share of the rent, refuse and report it to your PHA. More
- Lead-based paint disclosure (pre-1978 housing): If your pre-1978 lease came with no lead disclosure form and pamphlet, ask for them in writing before signing. More
- FCRA tenant screening: adverse action notices and disputes: Request your free report from the screening company within 60 days of a denial and dispute any errors in writing with supporting documents. More
- Rental 'junk fee' rulemaking and enforcement (FTC/CFPB): Before paying an application fee, ask in writing for the total monthly cost including every mandatory fee. More
- Federal eviction moratoria: Check your state and city rules, since any eviction pause now comes from local, not federal, law. More
City rules in Michigan
These cities add their own tenant protections on top of state law:
Eviction by county in Michigan
Which court hears evictions, filing fees, local rent levels and help:
- Eviction in Wayne County (Detroit)
- Eviction in Oakland County (Pontiac, Southfield, Troy)
- Eviction in Macomb County (Warren, Sterling Heights)
- Eviction in Kent County (Grand Rapids)
- Eviction in Washtenaw County (Ann Arbor / Ypsilanti)
- Eviction in Genesee County (Flint)
- Eviction in Ingham County (Lansing / East Lansing / Mason)
- Eviction in Kalamazoo County (Kalamazoo / Portage)
For landlords
How to evict a tenant in Michigan — steps, cost, timeline and forms.
Common Michigan questions
- Can a landlord enter without notice or permission?
- How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit?
- Can a landlord evict you without going to court, change the locks or shut off utilities?
- Can I withhold rent for repairs?
- How long does an eviction take?
- How much notice does a landlord have to give before an eviction?
- Can a landlord raise the rent in the middle of a lease?
- How much notice does a landlord have to give to end a lease or not renew?
- How much can a landlord charge for a late fee?
- Can a landlord retaliate against a tenant for complaining?
- How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit?
- How long does a landlord have to sue for unpaid rent or damages?
- Can a landlord accept rent during an eviction?
- Can you be evicted in the winter?
- Can a landlord give an eviction notice by text or email?
- How much notice does a landlord have to give before raising the rent?
- Does a landlord have to give you a copy of the lease?
- What happens to tenants if the landlord goes into foreclosure?
- How long does a landlord have to keep a tenant's belongings?
- How do you remove a squatter?
- How much can a landlord charge for a rental application fee?
- What rental fees are illegal (junk fees)?
- Can I break my lease because of domestic violence?
- Can I break my lease for military orders, medical reasons or a death?
- Can a landlord refuse Section 8?
- Can an eviction be removed from your record?
- Do tenants get a free lawyer for an eviction?
- What are my rights without a written lease?
- Does a landlord have to fix mold?
- Who pays for pest control and bed bugs in a rental?
- Does a landlord have to provide heat?
- Does a landlord have to provide air conditioning?
- What can a landlord charge for at move-out (cleaning, painting, carpet)?
- Can a landlord put cameras in or around a rental?
- Can a landlord limit overnight guests or roommates?
- Can a landlord deny a service or emotional support animal?
- Can a landlord evict you for no reason?
Free calculators
- Notice Deadline Calculator
- Security Deposit Deadline Calculator
- Late Fee Checker
- Rent Increase Calculator
How Michigan compares to neighboring states
| State | Security deposit limit | Deposit return deadline | Notice for unpaid rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Michigan | 1.5 months' rent MCL 554.602 | 30 days after the tenant's occupancy ends: landlord must mail an itemized notice of damages with the balance, or return the full deposit. If the landlord wants to keep any disputed amount it must sue within 45 days after termination of occupancy. MCL 554.609; MCL 554.610; MCL 554.613 | 7 days: written demand for possession (or written notice to quit) for nonpayment of rent before filing MCL 600.5714(1)(a); MCL 554.134(2); MCL 600.5716; MCL 600.5718 |
| Indiana | No statutory cap on security deposits. IC 32-31-3 | Within 45 days after termination of the rental agreement and delivery of possession, the landlord must return the deposit minus itemized deductions. The landlord is not liable until the tenant provides a written forwarding mailing address. IC 32-31-3-12, 32-31-3-14 | Not less than 10 days' notice to pay or vacate, unless the parties agreed otherwise or the tenant pays in full within the notice period. IC 32-31-1-6, 32-31-1-7 |
| Ohio | No statutory cap Ohio Rev. Code § 5321.16 | Within 30 days after the rental agreement ends and possession is delivered, the landlord must send the itemized written notice of deductions together with the amount due. Ohio Rev. Code § 5321.16(B) | 3-day written notice to leave the premises before filing an eviction (forcible entry and detainer) action. The residential notice must conspicuously state: "You are being asked to leave the premises. If you do not leave, an eviction action may be initiated against you. If you are in doubt regarding your legal rights and obligations as a tenant, it is recommended that you seek legal assistance." Ohio Rev. Code § 1923.04 |
| Wisconsin | No statutory cap on the amount of a security deposit. Wis. Admin. Code ATCP 134.06; Wis. Stat. § 704.28 | 21 days. If the tenant leaves on the termination date, the clock starts on that date. If the tenant leaves or is evicted early, it starts on the termination date, or when a new tenancy begins if the landlord re-rents first. If the tenant leaves after the termination date, it starts when the landlord learns the tenant has left or been removed. Wis. Stat. § 704.28(4); Wis. Admin. Code ATCP 134.06(2) | Month-to-month/week-to-week: 5-day pay-or-vacate notice, or (month-to-month only) a 14-day notice to vacate with no right to cure. Lease of 1 year or less: 5-day pay-or-vacate; if the tenant was late within the past year, a 14-day notice to vacate. Lease over 1 year: 30-day notice to pay. Wis. Stat. § 704.17(1p)(a), (2)(a), (3)(a) |
Michigan landlord-tenant FAQ
How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Michigan?
1.5 months' rent (MCL 554.602)
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Michigan?
30 days after the tenant's occupancy ends: landlord must mail an itemized notice of damages with the balance, or return the full deposit. If the landlord wants to keep any disputed amount it must sue within 45 days after termination of occupancy. (MCL 554.609; MCL 554.610; MCL 554.613)
Does a landlord have to pay interest on a security deposit in Michigan?
No statutory interest requirement (MCL 554.604)
Does a landlord in Michigan have to give an itemized list of deposit deductions?
Itemized notice of damages, mailed within 30 days after occupancy ends, listing each claimed damage, the estimated cost of repair for each item, and the amounts and bases for the charges, plus payment of any balance. Must include a bold notice (12-point boldface, at least 4 points larger than body text) that the tenant must respond by mail within 7 days or forfeit the amount claimed. (MCL 554.609; MCL 554.612; MCL 554.608)
What happens if a landlord in Michigan wrongfully keeps a security deposit?
Double the amount of the deposit retained, and the landlord waives all claimed damages, if the landlord fails to comply fully with MCL 554.613 (MCL 554.613(2); MCL 554.610)
How much notice does a landlord have to give before evicting for unpaid rent in Michigan?
7 days: written demand for possession (or written notice to quit) for nonpayment of rent before filing (MCL 600.5714(1)(a); MCL 554.134(2); MCL 600.5716; MCL 600.5718)
How much notice is required to evict for a lease violation in Michigan?
No single statutory period. If the lease allows termination for the violation, the lease's notice term controls; for a month-to-month or no-written-lease tenancy, a notice to quit of one rental period (generally 1 month) is used. Shorter statutory periods apply to certain conduct: 24 hours (drug activity with lease clause and police report), 7 days (serious continuing health hazard or extensive continuing physical damage; violence/threats with police notified). (MCL 600.5714(1)(b)-(e); MCL 554.134(1),(4))
How much notice is needed to end a month-to-month lease in Michigan?
Either party: one month's notice, or if rent is payable at intervals shorter than 3 months, notice equal to the rent-payment interval (e.g., 1 week for week-to-week). Termination date need not coincide with a rent period. Year-to-year tenancy: notice ends tenancy 1 year after service. (MCL 554.134(1),(3))
Can a landlord enter without notice in Michigan?
No statute — no Michigan statute sets a notice period or rules for landlord entry; entry is governed by the lease. (MCL 600.2918(3)(b) (no general entry statute))
Is there a limit on late fees in Michigan?
No statutory cap (None (common law))
Can a tenant repair and deduct from rent in Michigan?
Allowed under common law (no statute): after reasonable (preferably written) notice to the landlord, a tenant may make necessary repairs and deduct the cost from rent; keep all receipts. (MCL 554.139 (covenant of fitness and repair); common law)
Can a tenant withhold rent for repairs in Michigan?
Allowed under common law (no statute): tenant may withhold rent (ideally paid into a separate escrow account, with written notice to the landlord) when the landlord breaches the duty to repair. Landlord breach and escrowed rent are statutory defenses to a nonpayment eviction. (MCL 600.5720(1)(f),(g); MCL 554.139)
Can a landlord retaliate against a tenant for complaining in Michigan?
Defense to eviction: no judgment for possession if termination was intended primarily as a penalty for the tenant's attempt to enforce lease or legal rights, complaint to a government authority about a health/safety code violation, or other lawful tenancy-related act (including joining a tenant organization), or if the landlord added lease obligations as such a penalty. Presumption of retaliation if the tenant's protected action through a court or government agency occurred within 90 days before the eviction case began and was not dismissed/denied. (MCL 600.5720(1)(a)-(c),(e); MCL 600.5720(2))
Is there rent control or a limit on rent increases in Michigan?
Statewide preemption: local governments may not adopt, maintain, or enforce any ordinance or resolution that would have the effect of controlling rent on private residential property. No statewide rent cap. (MCL 123.411)
Can a landlord change the locks or shut off utilities in Michigan?
Self-help eviction is prohibited. Landlord may not use force or threats, remove/retain/destroy the tenant's property, change locks without immediately providing keys, board up, remove doors/windows/locks, interrupt essential services (heat, running water, hot water, electric, gas) amounting to constructive eviction, or introduce noise/odor/nuisance. Tenant may recover actual damages or $200, whichever is greater, for each occurrence, plus possession; unlawful forcible ejection allows 3 times actual damages or $200, whichever is greater. (MCL 600.2918(1)-(2))
What is the small claims court limit in Michigan for a deposit dispute?
$7,000 (MCL 600.8401)
How do you remove a squatter in Michigan?
Two routes. (1) Court: summary proceedings are available against a person who entered by force, holds possession by force after a peaceable entry, or 'comes into possession of premises by trespass without color of title or other possessory interest.' After a judgment for possession, the court may issue the writ of restitution immediately if trespass without color of title is pleaded and proved with notice; normally there is a 10-day wait. (2) Self-help: if the occupant came in by forcible entry, holds by force, or is a trespasser without color of title, the owner or agent may enter the premises. The peaceable-entry requirement does not apply, but assault and battery (MCL 750.81-750.90g) remain prohibited. (MCL 600.5714(1)(f); MCL 600.5744(3)(d), (5); MCL 600.5711(3))
What can a landlord do with a tenant's abandoned property in Michigan?
No storage or notice statute for belongings left behind. At eviction, the writ directs the officer to remove all occupants and personal property and either leave the property in an area open to the public or in the public right-of-way, or deliver it to the sheriff if the sheriff allows. The officer serving the writ decides whether the premises and property are abandoned. (MCL 600.5744(1)-(2))
Can a domestic violence survivor break a lease in Michigan?
A tenant with a reasonable fear of present danger to the tenant or the tenant's child from domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking is released from rent. The tenant must send written notice of intent to seek release by certified mail, with a written statement of that fear and one qualifying document. Qualifying documents: a valid personal protection order (or similar order), a probation, parole or conditional release order with no-contact conditions, a police report that resulted in charges (charges filed within 14 days, or older charges with a verifiable present threat), or a qualified third party's verified report in the statutory form. Liability: rent ends no later than the first day of the second month that rent is due after notice, and not before the tenant moves out. Prepaid amounts, such as first and last month's rent, are not refunded, and the deposit may still be withheld as allowed by law. The lease must include, or the landlord must post or deliver, the statutory notice of this right. (MCL 554.601b)
When can a tenant break a lease without penalty in Michigan?
Leases must let a tenant who has lived in the unit more than 13 months end the lease with 60 days' written notice if the tenant (a) becomes eligible during the lease term for subsidized senior citizen housing and gives written proof, or (b) becomes unable to live independently, as certified by a physician in a notarized statement. This applies to leases entered into, renewed or renegotiated after June 15, 1995. (MCL 554.601a)
Can an eviction record be sealed or removed in Michigan?
No. Michigan has no statute sealing or expunging eviction records. Two 2025 bills are pending: SB 374 (sealing, and automatic expungement 3 years after a final judgment for possession), placed on Senate third reading on Mar. 3, 2026; and HB 4984 (records nonpublic until a judgment for possession), in the House Regulatory Reform committee since Sept. 2025. Neither has been enacted as of this check. (2025 SB 374; 2025 HB 4984 (pending))
Can a landlord refuse Section 8 vouchers in Michigan?
Yes, effective Apr. 2, 2025. A landlord may not deny or end a tenancy, set different terms, fees or rent, misstate availability, advertise a preference, or try to discourage a tenant because of source of income, including vouchers and subsidies. If the landlord has an income threshold, it must count vouchers and subsidies when applying it (this does not cover emergency rental assistance). Exempt: landlords who, together with related entities, own fewer than 5 rental units in Michigan. (MCL 554.601c (2024 PA 178))
What does a Michigan notice to pay rent or quit have to include?
A written 7-day demand for possession for nonpayment (MCL 600.5714(1)(a); see also the 7-day notice to quit in MCL 554.134(2)). It must be addressed to the person in possession and give the address or a brief description of the premises. It must clearly state the reason, the time allowed to fix the problem, and the amount due when the demand is made. It must be dated and signed by the landlord, attorney or agent. Service: personal delivery; delivery on the premises to a household member or employee of suitable age; first-class mail (service counts on the next regular mail-delivery day); or electronic service if the tenant consented in writing and confirmed electronically. A landlord may not refuse to rent to someone who declines electronic service. Rent due does not include accelerated rent. (MCL 600.5714(1)(a), 600.5716, 600.5718; MCL 554.134(2))
What does a Michigan notice to end a month-to-month tenancy have to include?
Tenancy at will or by sufferance: 1 month's notice, or a notice equal to the rent-payment interval if rent is paid at intervals shorter than 3 months. A termination date that does not match the end of a rental period does not void the notice; the tenancy ends after a full rental interval. Year-to-year tenancy: a notice ends the tenancy 1 year after service. (MCL 554.134(1), (3))
What must a Michigan security deposit itemization include?
Within 30 days after the tenant moves out, mail a notice of damages with an itemized list of the damages claimed, the estimated repair cost for each damaged item, and the amounts and basis for each charge. Damages noted on the move-in checklist may not be included. Send with it a check or money order for the balance, or pay the balance by direct deposit or electronic transfer within 10 days after mailing the notice. The notice must contain this statement in 12-point boldface type at least 4 points larger than the body text: "You must respond to this notice by mail within 7 days after receipt of the notice of damages, otherwise you will forfeit the amount claimed for damages." (MCL 554.609)
How long does a landlord have to sue for unpaid rent in Michigan?
6 years for an action to recover damages or money due for breach of contract (unpaid rent or damages under a lease). The same period applies to written and oral leases. (MCL 600.5807(1), (9))
Can a landlord accept rent during an eviction in Michigan?
No statute addresses whether accepting rent after a notice waives the eviction; that is left to case law and the lease. By statute, after a nonpayment judgment for possession, no eviction order (writ of restitution) can issue if the tenant pays the judgment amount plus taxed costs within the time allowed (generally 10 days after judgment). (MCL 600.5744(5), (7); MCL 600.5714, 600.5716, 600.5718 checked)
Can you be evicted in the winter in Michigan?
No state statute limits evictions in winter. (MCL 600.5714, 600.5744 (no seasonal limit))
Can a landlord give notice by text or email in Michigan?
A demand for possession or notice to quit can be served by: (a) personal delivery to the tenant; (b) delivery at the premises to a household member or employee of suitable age, asking them to pass it on; (c) first-class mail (served on the next regular mail-delivery day); or (d) electronic service, only if the tenant specifically consented in writing and the consent was confirmed by an electronic reply. A landlord cannot refuse to rent because a tenant declines e-service. (MCL 600.5718(1)-(2))
How much notice is required for a rent increase in Michigan?
No statute sets a rent-increase notice period. A month-to-month tenancy can be ended (and so changed) with notice equal to one rental period (1 month for monthly rent). During a lease term, the lease controls. (MCL 554.134(1))
Does a landlord have to give a copy of the lease in Michigan?
No statute requiring a copy of the signed lease was found. A landlord who takes a security deposit must give the tenant written notice within 14 days of move-in stating the landlord's name and address for communications, the bank or surety holding the deposit, and the tenant's duty to give a forwarding address within 4 days after moving out (bold-type statement required). (MCL 554.603)
What are tenants' rights in a foreclosure in Michigan?
No Michigan statute grants tenants special notice beyond eviction law. After a foreclosure sale, the occupant can be removed by summary proceedings only once the redemption period ends, which is usually 6 months for 1-4 unit homes (1 month or 30 days if abandoned; 1 year in some cases). During redemption, the buyer may inspect on 72 hours' notice. Federal PTFA 90-day notice protections apply separately. (MCL 600.5714(1)(g); MCL 600.3240(7)-(12); MCL 600.3238)
Does a landlord have to fix mold in Michigan?
No statute — Michigan has no mold disclosure or remediation law. Every residential lease includes statutory covenants that the premises and common areas are fit for their intended use, that the landlord will keep the premises in reasonable repair, and that the landlord will comply with state and local health and safety laws. The exception is disrepair caused by the tenant's willful or irresponsible conduct. Where the Housing Law of Michigan applies, the owner must keep the roof from leaking and drain rainwater so as to avoid dampness in walls and ceilings. An occupant can sue for damages and injunctive relief if unsafe or unsanitary conditions go unabated after notice. (MCL 554.139(1); MCL 125.471; MCL 125.536)
Who pays for pest control and bed bugs in Michigan?
No statute — no state law specifically assigns pest or bed bug treatment or requires disclosure. Infestations fall under the landlord's statutory covenants of fitness and reasonable repair and the duty to comply with health and safety laws, unless the tenant's willful or irresponsible conduct caused the problem. Local housing codes often set specific extermination duties. (MCL 554.139(1))
Does a landlord have to provide heat in Michigan?
No statewide minimum indoor temperature or heating season was found in state statute. Where the Housing Law of Michigan applies, the owner must keep heating, plumbing, ventilation and wiring in good repair. More generally, the landlord's covenants of fitness, reasonable repair and compliance with health and safety laws apply to heating the landlord supplies. Many cities set minimum temperatures in local housing codes. (MCL 125.471; MCL 554.139(1))
Does a landlord have to provide air conditioning in Michigan?
No statute — Michigan law does not require landlords to provide air conditioning or set a maximum indoor temperature. If the landlord supplies AC, it falls under the general fitness and repair covenants. (MCL 554.139; MCL 125.471 (checked))
What can a landlord deduct from a deposit for cleaning or damage in Michigan?
A deposit may be used only to reimburse actual damage to the unit or ancillary facilities that is the direct result of conduct not reasonably expected in the normal course of habitation, and for rent arrears, rent from early termination by the tenant, and unpaid utility bills. Ordinary wear from normal living cannot be charged. Landlords must use move-in and move-out inventory checklists covering items such as carpeting, draperies, appliances, walls, paint and fixtures. The tenant has 7 days after moving in to note the condition. The statute doesn't specifically mention cleaning charges. (MCL 554.607; MCL 554.608)
Can a landlord put cameras in or around a rental in Michigan?
No landlord-specific statute, but Michigan law is strict. It is a felony to install, place or use in any private place, without the consent of the people entitled to privacy there, a device for observing, recording, transmitting, photographing or eavesdropping. The penalty is up to 2 years and/or $2,000, or up to 5 years for repeat offenses or for distributing the images. A 'private place' is one where a person can reasonably expect to be safe from casual or hostile intrusion or surveillance; places with public access are excluded. Security monitoring in a residence by its owner or principal occupant is allowed unless done for a lewd purpose. Eavesdropping means overhearing or recording private conversation without the permission of ALL participants. Trespassing to conduct surveillance is a misdemeanor. (MCL 750.539d; MCL 750.539a; MCL 750.539b)
Can a landlord limit guests or roommates in Michigan?
No statute — the lease governs guests, occupancy limits and roommates. Michigan's landlord-tenant statutes don't define guests versus tenants or give roommate rights. (MCL 554.139; MCL 554.601-554.616 (checked))
Can a landlord deny a service or emotional support animal in Michigan?
Michigan's Persons with Disabilities Civil Rights Act bars landlords from refusing to rent to, or discriminating in rental terms against, a person because of a disability unrelated to their ability to rent or maintain the property. It also bars discrimination based on use of adaptive devices or aids. Federal Fair Housing Act reasonable-accommodation rules govern emotional support animals, including no pet fees or deposits. State law also makes it a misdemeanor to maliciously harass, injure or interfere with a service animal. No state statute setting housing-specific documentation rules or a misrepresentation penalty was found in the sections checked. (MCL 37.1502(1); MCL 750.50a; MCL 750.502c)
Official resources for Michigan
- Michigan Legislature: A Practical Guide for Tenants & Landlords (Rev. 3/2026)
- Landlord and Tenant Relationships Act (MCL 554.601-554.616)
- Michigan Legal Help: Eviction - What Is It and How Does It Start?
- Michigan Legal Help: Going to Court in an Eviction Case
- Michigan Legal Help: Eviction after Court Is Over
- Michigan Legal Help: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.