Housing Problems in Michigan

Under MCL Section 554.602, Michigan limits security deposits to one and one-half months' rent. Landlords must also provide a written move-in and move-out inventory checklist. Failure to follow required procedures may forfeit the landlord's right to make deductions. Deposits must be returned within 30 days.

For nonpayment of rent, Michigan requires a 7-day demand for payment before the landlord may file summary proceedings. For other lease violations, a 30-day notice to comply or vacate is typically required. Eviction hearings are scheduled in district court.

Michigan law requires landlords to provide tenants with a written inventory checklist describing the condition of the rental unit at move-in. Tenants should complete and sign this form to protect their deposit. At move-out, a similar checklist is required. If the landlord fails to provide the move-in checklist, they may not be able to make deductions.

No. Michigan has no statewide rent control law, and a state preemption law prohibits local governments from enacting rent control ordinances. Landlords may increase rents at lease renewal with proper notice.