Michigan Tenant Resources
Your comprehensive guide to rental laws, guidelines and advocacy in Michigan
What are the late fee regulations in Michigan?
Michigan law allows landlords to charge late fees if specified in the lease agreement. The late fee must be reasonable and clearly stated in the lease. There is no specific state law limiting the amount of late fees, but they must be reasonable and not punitive. Courts generally consider late fees of 5-10% of monthly rent to be reasonable. The lease should specify when rent is considered late and when late fees begin to accrue.
What are the rules for security deposits in Michigan?
Michigan law limits security deposits to 1.5 times the monthly rent. Landlords must provide tenants with an inventory checklist when they move in. The security deposit must be held in a regulated financial institution and the landlord must provide the tenant with written notice of where it is being held. Deposits must be returned within 30 days of move-out, minus any itemized deductions. Tenants have 7 days after moving in to complete and return the inventory checklist noting any existing damage.
What are the eviction rules and tenant protections in Michigan?
Michigan requires: 1) 7-day notice for non-payment of rent or serious lease violations, 2) 30-day notice for month-to-month termination. Self-help eviction is illegal - landlords must go through court proceedings. After notice period expires, landlords must file a complaint with the district court. Tenants have the right to cure lease violations within notice period. The court will schedule a hearing within 10 days. Special protections exist for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. Tenants may withhold rent for serious repair issues after proper notice.
What are the maintenance requirements for landlords in Michigan?
Michigan law requires landlords to maintain: 1) Building structural elements in good repair, 2) Plumbing, heating, and electrical systems in working order, 3) Weather protection and waterproofing, 4) Safe and sanitary common areas, 5) Pest-free conditions, 6) Compliance with local housing codes. The Michigan Housing Law sets basic standards for habitability. Tenants must provide written notice of repair needs. If landlords fail to make repairs within a reasonable time, tenants may withhold rent, make repairs and deduct costs, or file a complaint with local housing authorities.
What notice is required for landlord entry in Michigan?
Michigan law requires landlords to provide reasonable notice before entering a rental unit, typically 24 hours, except in emergencies. Entry must be during reasonable hours. The lease should specify notice requirements. Landlords must have a legitimate purpose for entry such as repairs, inspections, or showing the unit. Tenants cannot unreasonably deny access. Unauthorized entry may violate tenant's right to quiet enjoyment and privacy. Some local ordinances may specify minimum notice periods.
What are the rules for rent increases in Michigan?
Michigan law requires landlords to provide written notice before increasing rent, typically at least one rental period in advance (30 days for month-to-month tenancies). For fixed-term leases, rent can only be increased at renewal unless specifically allowed in the lease. Rent increases cannot be retaliatory or discriminatory. Michigan has no statewide rent control laws, and local municipalities are prohibited from enacting rent control ordinances. Landlords can increase rent by any amount as long as proper notice is given and it's not done for discriminatory or retaliatory reasons.
What are my rights regarding repairs in Michigan?
Michigan tenants have specific repair rights under state law: 1) Notify landlord in writing of needed repairs, 2) Give landlord reasonable time to make repairs (typically 30 days), 3) If landlord fails to make repairs, tenants can exercise 'repair and deduct' rights, withhold rent, or file a complaint with local housing authorities. Michigan's Housing Law establishes minimum standards for habitability. Tenants must document all repair requests and landlord communications. For serious habitability issues affecting health/safety, tenants may be able to terminate the lease after proper notice.
What are the rules about security deposit deductions in Michigan?
Michigan landlords can deduct for: 1) Unpaid rent or utilities, 2) Damage beyond normal wear and tear, 3) Other lease violations. They must return deposits within 30 days of move-out and provide an itemized list of deductions. Security deposits cannot exceed 1.5 times monthly rent and must be held in a regulated financial institution. Tenants must receive a move-in inventory checklist and have 7 days to note existing damage. Landlords who fail to follow security deposit laws may forfeit the right to make deductions and face legal penalties.
What are Michigan's requirements for smoke detectors?
Michigan law requires working smoke detectors in all rental units. They must be installed on each floor including basements, outside each sleeping area, and inside each bedroom. Smoke alarms must be UL listed and properly maintained. Carbon monoxide detectors are required in residential properties with fuel-burning appliances or attached garages. Landlords must ensure detectors are working at the start of each tenancy. Tenants are typically responsible for testing devices and replacing batteries during their tenancy. Tampering with smoke detectors is illegal under Michigan law.
What disclosures are required from Michigan landlords?
Michigan landlords must disclose: • Lead paint (pre-1978 buildings) as required by federal law • Security deposit terms and financial institution information • Truth in Renting Act notice • Property manager/owner contact information • Utility arrangements and responsibilities • Any existing damage or defects • Notice of entry rights • Information about any outstanding code violations • Smoke and carbon monoxide detector compliance • Presence of known environmental hazards • Bedbug infestation history (in some jurisdictions) • Crime-free housing addendum (if applicable)
Tenant Support
Rental Assistance
Legal Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. While we strive to keep the information up-to-date and accurate, laws and regulations can change frequently. Specific situations may vary, and the application of rental laws can depend on numerous factors. We recommend consulting with a qualified legal professional for advice regarding your specific circumstances.
