Michigan Tenant Rights
Michigan's landlord-tenant law is governed primarily by the Truth in Renting Act (Mich.
Last reviewed:
Key Laws by Topic
Eviction Laws
- Notice Period:
- 30 days for month-to-month tenancy
- Just Cause Required:
- No statewide just-cause requirement
- Cure Or Quit Period:
- 7 days for nonpayment of rent; 30 days for lease violations
- Eviction Process:
- Summary proceedings in District Court; landlord must give demand for possession before filing
Security Deposit Laws
- Limit:
- 1.5 months' rent
- Return Deadline:
- 30 days after tenancy ends
- Interest Required:
- No
- Move In Inventory Required:
- Yes — landlord must provide condition inventory within 7 days of move-in
- Penalty For Wrongful Withholding:
- Landlord liable for double the wrongfully withheld amount plus court costs
Repair & Habitability Laws
- Repair And Deduct:
- Not codified in Michigan statutes
- Rent Withholding:
- Tenant may not unilaterally withhold rent under Michigan law
- Habitability Standard:
- Fit for intended use; reasonable repair; housing and health code compliance
- Remedies Available:
- Tenant may file suit for breach of warranty; may assert defense in eviction proceedings
Tenant Harassment Laws
- Anti Harassment:
- Strong statutory remedy for unlawful self-help eviction tactics
- Penalties:
- Three months' rent or actual damages (whichever is greater) plus attorney fees
- Self Help Prohibited:
- Yes — lockouts, utility shutoffs, and property removal are illegal
- Retaliation Prohibited:
- Anti-retaliation protection available under general principles
Notice & Entry Laws
- Notice Required:
- Reasonable notice required under common law (24 hours by custom)
- Emergency Entry:
- Permitted without prior notice in emergency situations
- Common Law Standard:
- 24 hours is the accepted standard in Michigan practice
- Lease Terms:
- Lease provisions may specify notice requirements; tenants should negotiate entry terms
Legal Aid Resources
Michigan Legal Help
Statewide Michigan (online resources and referrals)
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Not Legal Advice. This site provides general educational information only — not legal counsel. Laws vary by location. Consult a qualified attorney for advice on your specific situation.