Michigan landlord-tenant laws.
Notable Michigan quirk
Missing the 30-day itemized-damages notice concedes no damages and requires returning the full deposit; deposits must sit in a regulated financial institution or be bonded (§ 554.604).
Michigan landlord law FAQ
What is the maximum security deposit in Michigan?
1.5 months' rent (MCL 554.602).
How long does a Michigan landlord have to return a deposit?
Mail an itemized damages list and any refund within 30 days after move-out (MCL 554.609). Missing the deadline forfeits the damage claim and requires returning the full deposit; the tenant then has 7 days to dispute the list in writing.
Is there a limit on late fees in Michigan?
No. Michigan has no statutory late-fee cap and no required grace period; the lease sets the fee, though a court can refuse to enforce an unreasonable penalty.
Does a Michigan landlord have to give notice before entering?
No state statute requires advance entry notice; entry terms are governed by the lease. Roughly 24 hours' notice is best practice, not a legal mandate.
What is the small claims limit in Michigan?
$7,000 (MCL 600.8401, effective Jan. 1, 2024), covering most deposit and unpaid-rent disputes. No attorneys in the small-claims division.
Where must Michigan deposits be kept?
In a regulated financial institution or covered by a surety bond, with the institution's name and address disclosed to the tenant in writing at move-in (MCL 554.604).
How much can a landlord charge for late rent in Michigan?
No statutory cap — the lease sets it, subject to reasonableness. Grace period: None statutory — the lease controls. Late fee terms should always be written into the lease.
What is the security deposit limit in Michigan?
1.5 months' rent. The deposit must be returned within 30 days after move-out.
How much notice does a landlord need to enter a rental in Michigan?
None statutorily required (lease governs).
Is there rent control in Michigan?
Prohibited.
Sources
Summarized from public statutes, state bar guides, and provincial residential tenancy acts. Last reviewed 2026-07-02. Deposit statute: Mich. Comp. Laws §§ 554.602, 554.609. Late fee statute: None — no statutory cap; the lease controls.
- Mich. Comp. Laws § 554.602 (deposit cap)
- Mich. Comp. Laws § 554.609 (deposit return)
- Mich. Comp. Laws § 600.8401 (small claims)
- Landlord & Tenant Relationships Act (Act 348 of 1972)
This page is general information, not legal advice. Consult a local attorney for your specific situation.