Michigan Tenant Harassment Laws
Michigan has a strong anti-lockout statute.
Key Rules
- Anti Harassment
- Strong statutory remedy for unlawful self-help eviction tactics
- Penalties
- $200 or actual damages, whichever is greater, per occurrence -- no attorney-fee provision in this section
- Self Help Prohibited
- Yes — lockouts, utility shutoffs, and property removal are illegal
- Retaliation Prohibited
- Anti-retaliation protection available under general principles
Some citations below have not been confirmed against their official source. Confirm current requirements with local legal aid or an attorney.
Applicable Statutes
Unlawful interference with possessory interest: person who unlawfully locks out a tenant, removes their property, or shuts off an essential service (heat, water, electric, gas) to force a tenant to vacate is liable to the tenant for actual damages or $200, whichever is greater, for each occurrence, and may recover possession if it was lost.
Not confirmed against its source · checked
Legal Aid Resources
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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.