Michigan Landlord-Tenant Law

When renting an apartment in Michigan, everyone is expected to follow landlord-tenant laws and fair housing rules. Fortunately, becoming familiar with the rights and responsibilities of Michigan landlords and tenants is easy. Brush up on the basics to protect yourself, avoid drama, and know when to get help from a landlord-tenant attorney.

Rights and Responsibilities of Landlords and Tenants

Michigan landlord-tenant law is a collection of rules that explain what landlords must do, what tenants must do, and what happens if either side drops the ball. In short, landlords must provide safe, livable accommodations and comply with fair housing rules. In turn, tenants must pay rent on time, take care of the unit, and follow the lease rules regarding guests, pets, and noise. The aim is simple: keep Michigan housing safe, fair, and predictable for both sides.

Rent, Deposits, and Fees

Let’s start with the financial side, because that’s where many landlord and tenant law disputes begin. Here’s what to know:

• Security deposits: Landlords can collect up to 1.5 months’ rent as a security deposit. The funds must be held by a regulated financial institution or in a bond for the tenant’s security.
• Move-in checklist: Tenants should complete a checklist upon move-in to distinguish between what was already there and what damage they caused (and may be charged for) upon move-out.
• Rent due date and late fees: State law does not set a specific grace period or cap late fees, but any fees must appear in the lease. Tenants should read the agreement carefully before signing.
• Security deposit returns: When a tenant moves out, the landlord has 30 days to send an itemized list of deductions or return the deposit in full. Tenants should provide a forwarding address within four days of moving out so the landlord knows where to send the money.
• No rent control: Landlords in Michigan can raise rent at the end of a lease term, provided they give adequate notice. Mid-lease increases generally are not allowed unless the lease says otherwise.

Tenant Rights, With or Without a Lease

Many renters wonder about their rights if they go month-to-month after their lease expires, or if they only ever had a verbal agreement. Even without a lease, tenants have the right to:

• A safe and habitable living space. This includes a unit with heat, water, electricity, and basic structural safety.
• Request needed repairs. In many cases, tenants can deduct the repair cost from rent if the landlord refuses to act within a reasonable time.
• Quiet enjoyment, which means no constant disturbance or harassment.
• Fair eviction hearings. Lockouts, shutting off utilities, or changing locks without a court order are not acceptable.
• Protection against landlord retaliation. Landlords can’t treat a tenant differently or impose penalties for requesting repairs or exercising legal rights.

Landlord Responsibilities

Michigan landlord and tenant law establishes responsibilities for property owners. Landlords across the state are expected to:

• Provide disclosures. Tenants should know who manages the property, where the deposit is held, and whether any lead-based paint exists in older buildings.
• Follow fair housing laws. Landlords cannot refuse to rent, change terms, or advertise in a way that discriminates based on protected characteristics like race, religion, disability, or family status.
• Respect their tenants’ privacy. The law does not spell out an exact notice period before entry, but 24 to 48 hours is common practice unless there’s an emergency.
• Handle repairs promptly, especially when they affect the tenant’s health and safety.
• Use proper eviction procedures, including timely notices and a court process.

When You May Need a Landlord-Tenant Attorney

Most small issues never reach a courtroom. A quick conversation between landlord and tenant can solve a surprising amount. However, if something serious happens that was never planned for in writing, you may need to consult an attorney for landlord-tenant laws to sort out who owes what.

An experienced landlord-tenant attorney can explain how the law applies in your situation, what evidence matters, and whether it makes sense to settle or go to court. Here are some examples that warrant calling an attorney:

• Disputes over a large security deposit
• Recurring repair problems that affect health or safety
• Claims of discrimination or retaliation
• Threats of eviction that do not come with proper written notices
• Confusing situations around tenant rights without a lease

Why Renters Choose Westbay Management

If you’re looking for a great place to live in Lansing or Jackson, MI, consider a property run by Westbay Management. We take Michigan landlord-tenant law seriously because we want our residents to feel happy and cared for.

Our communities offer one- and two-bedroom floor plans in well-maintained buildings. Residents enjoy high-quality apartments at affordable prices, with thoughtful amenities such as covered on-site parking, inviting clubhouses, private balconies, and full kitchens with energy-efficient appliances. Heat, water, and trash are included, and our responsive maintenance team is ready to help when emergencies happen after hours.

If you’re ready for a rental experience backed by professionals who understand and heed landlord-tenant law, please explore our Lansing and Jackson communities or contact us to schedule a tour.