Michigan Landlord-Tenant Law Guide
Key landlord-tenant laws in Michigan covering security deposits, notice requirements, evictions, and maintenance obligations under Michigan’s landlord-tenant statutes.
Legal Disclaimer
This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws change frequently — verify current requirements with a local attorney. Information was last reviewed on 2026-03-19.
Security Deposits
- Maximum Amount
- 1.5 months’ rent maximum.
- Return Deadline
- 30 days after the tenant vacates. Landlord must provide an itemized list of damages within 30 days.
- Itemized Deduction Requirements
- Landlord must mail an itemized list of damages and the remaining deposit within 30 days. Landlord must conduct a joint move-in and move-out inspection if requested by the tenant. Failure to comply may result in liability for double the deposit.
Rentra can help you track security deposits and generate itemized deduction statements. Learn about rent collection features
Notice Requirements
- Entry Notice
- No specific statutory requirement for advance notice of entry. A 24-hour notice is generally recommended as best practice.
- Lease Termination Notice
- 30 days’ notice for month-to-month tenancies. For yearly tenancies, notice must be given before the end of the lease term.
- Rent Increase Notice
- No specific statutory requirement. For month-to-month tenancies, a rent increase typically requires the same notice as lease termination (30 days).
Use Rentra's communication tools to send and document required notices. Learn about communication features
Rent Rules
- Rent Control
- No rent control. Michigan has a state preemption law (MCL §123.411) that prohibits local rent control ordinances.
- Late Fee Regulations
- No statutory cap. The Truth in Renting Act requires that lease provisions (including late fees) not be unconscionable.
- Payment Methods
- No specific statutory requirements. Payment methods are governed by the lease.
Rentra supports multiple payment methods and configurable late fee rules. Learn about rent collection
Eviction Process
- Notice to Quit/Cure Period
- 7-day demand for rent for nonpayment. 30-day notice for lease termination or violations. In cases of serious health or safety issues, a 7-day notice may be used.
- Court Filing
- Summary proceedings complaint filed in District Court. Hearing typically within 10 days. If the court finds for the landlord, a judgment of possession is entered and a writ may be issued after 10 days.
- Estimated Timeline
- Approximately 3–6 weeks for uncontested cases. Contested cases may take several weeks to months.
Maintenance & Habitability
- Implied Warranty of Habitability
- Yes. Michigan courts recognize an implied warranty of habitability. Landlords must maintain the premises in reasonable repair and comply with applicable health and safety codes.
- Repair Response Requirements
- Landlords must make repairs within a reasonable time after receiving notice from the tenant. Local housing codes may specify timelines.
- Tenant Remedies
- Tenants may withhold rent (after proper notice), contact local code enforcement, or pursue court remedies. Michigan does not have a broad statutory repair-and-deduct provision.
Track and respond to maintenance requests efficiently with Rentra. Learn about maintenance management
Lease Requirements
- Required Disclosures
- Lead-based paint disclosure (pre-1978 buildings)
- Landlord’s name and address (or authorized agent)
- Move-in checklist (itemizing existing damage before occupancy)
- Truth in Renting Act notice (if lease contains provisions that violate the Act)
- Lease Term Requirements
- No statutory restrictions on lease length. Leases for more than 1 year must be in writing.
- Required Clauses
- The Truth in Renting Act prohibits certain unconscionable lease provisions (e.g., waiver of landlord liability for negligence, confession of judgment clauses).
Key Statute Reference
Michigan Compiled Laws, Act 348 of 1972 (Security Deposit Act, MCL §554.601–616); Truth in Renting Act (MCL §554.631–641); Summary Proceedings Act (MCL §600.5701–5759)
This is the primary state statute governing landlord-tenant relationships in Michigan. For the full text, consult your state legislature's website or a legal database.
Legal Disclaimer
This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws change frequently — verify current requirements with a local attorney. Information was last reviewed on 2026-03-19.
Manage Michigan properties with confidence
Rentra helps you stay organized with automated maintenance tracking, rent collection, and documentation — so you can focus on compliance and growth.