What are tenant rights in Michigan?

Michigan tenant law is governed by the Truth in Renting Act and various provisions in MCL Chapter 554.

1. Security Deposit — Capped at 1.5 months' rent under MCL § 554.602. Landlord must provide deposit holding bank info within 14 days of move-in (§ 554.603) and return within 30 days with an itemized list of damages (§ 554.609). Tenant must provide a forwarding address within 4 days of move-out, or forfeit deposit claim.

2. Habitability — MCL § 554.139 requires landlords to maintain premises and common areas in reasonable repair, fit for the use intended, and in compliance with applicable health and safety laws.

3. Tenant Remedies — Tenants may sue for damages, terminate the lease for material breaches, or use rent escrow. Repair-and-deduct is recognized in limited circumstances.

4. Notice for Entry — No statutory requirement. Lease controls.

5. Eviction Notice — MCL § 600.5714 requires 7 days' written notice for nonpayment of rent or for serious damage/health hazards, and 30 days' notice for other terminations including end of lease.

6. Termination of Month-to-Month — § 554.134 requires notice equal to one rental period (typically 30 days).

7. Rent Control — Prohibited by MCL § 123.411 (the Rent Control Preemption Act).

8. Discrimination — Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act (MCL § 37.2502) prohibits housing discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, marital status, familial status, and (since 2023) sexual orientation and gender identity.

9. Retaliation — MCL § 600.5720 prohibits retaliatory eviction for 90 days after tenant complains to government, joins a tenant union, or exercises legal rights.

This is legal information, not legal advice.