20 Michigan-specific rules

Michigan Lease Review

Upload your Michigan lease and get an instant risk report. Our engine checks every clause against Michigan landlord-tenant law — hidden fees, lease terms that may conflict with state rules, and missing protections flagged in seconds.

Michigan renters should treat the security-deposit section as a paperwork system, not just a dollar amount. The 1.5-month cap matters, but so do inventory checklists, forwarding-address instructions, bank or bond disclosures, and timing rules that shape whether a move-out dispute is documented fairly.

Analyze Your Michigan Lease

How LeaseGuard reviews leases in Michigan

Michigan renters do not just need a generic lease summary. The review is tuned to the clauses that most often create disputes in Michigan, using 20 rules tied to that jurisdiction.

Michigan deposit terms

Michigan limits security deposits to 1.5 months' rent. LeaseGuard checks whether the lease wording matches that cap, timeline, or disclosure standard.

Michigan entry and notice rules

Michigan has limited entry notice requirements. We flag clauses that shorten notice windows or give the landlord broader access than renters usually expect.

Michigan late-fee language

Michigan does not set a residential statutory late-fee cap; LeaseGuard treats unusually high fees as a common-law reasonableness issue. The report looks for stacked penalties, vague fee triggers, and clause wording that can snowball after one missed payment.

Michigan Tenant Protection Highlights

Security Deposit

Michigan limits security deposits to 1.5 months' rent.

Entry Notice

Michigan has limited entry notice requirements.

Late Fees

Michigan does not set a residential statutory late-fee cap; LeaseGuard treats unusually high fees as a common-law reasonableness issue.

Estimate a late fee

Common Michigan lease clauses to review

These are the lease areas that usually deserve the closest read in Michigan, especially when a landlord uses a broad form lease drafted for multiple markets.

1.5 months' max deposit clauses that should match current Michigan landlord-tenant rules.
Required inventory checklist language that landlords often summarize incorrectly or leave out of the lease packet.
Michigan has limited entry notice requirements. LeaseGuard highlights entry wording that is broader than the notice tenants usually receive in Michigan.
Michigan does not set a residential statutory late-fee cap; LeaseGuard treats unusually high fees as a common-law reasonableness issue. We also look for daily penalties, multipliers, rent acceleration, and other fee structures that compound quickly.

What stands out in Michigan renter protections

Rules that usually drive negotiation

1.5 months' max deposit. Required inventory checklist. These are often the clauses renters can raise before signing because they directly affect cost, access, or the landlord's obligations after move out.

Where boilerplate can drift offside

Landlords often reuse one lease packet across multiple states. In Michigan, that creates the most friction when deposit, notice, or late-fee wording ignores the local rule set or skips a state-specific disclosure entirely.

State-specific renter context

Michigan's Landlord and Tenant Relationships Act gives the deposit section several technical requirements. A lease that lists the right dollar amount can still be weak if it skips the inventory-checklist process or makes the tenant responsible for vague charges that are difficult to verify later.

Last legally reviewed: 2026-08-01

The deposit cap is 1.5 months' rent

Michigan MCL 554.602 limits a residential security deposit to 1.5 months' rent. Renters should compare the deposit amount against base rent and watch for extra move-in charges that function like deposit money under a different label.

Inventory checklist language affects move-out leverage

Michigan deposit rules rely heavily on written notices, inventory checklists, and forwarding-address steps. A renter-friendly lease packet should make those steps easy to follow rather than hiding them in dense boilerplate.

Entry and lockout language deserves a separate read

Michigan leases sometimes use broad access or default language. Renters should separate routine entry rights from emergency access and make sure the lease does not imply lockout, utility shutoff, or other self-help remedies without court process.

Questions to ask before signing

  • Is every move-in charge clearly categorized as rent, fee, or security deposit?
  • Does the lease packet include the inventory checklist and forwarding-address instructions?
  • Does the entry clause define routine access separately from emergencies?
  • Does default language avoid lockout, utility shutoff, or property-removal threats?

Primary sources reviewed

Michigan cities may add rental certification, inspection, or local housing-code requirements, especially for multifamily housing. Those local rules can affect what a renter should request before signing.

Renter questions people search before signing

Michigan lease questions LeaseGuard can help you check

These sections summarize verified state rules that often affect deposits, late fees, and early-exit exposure. LeaseGuard checks your exact lease wording against these issues.

What is the Michigan security deposit limit and return deadline?

Michigan limits a residential security deposit to 1.5 months' rent. The deposit section should also include the landlord's required notice information, bank or bond details, inventory checklist process, forwarding-address instructions, and the 30-day post-move-out claim process.

Important exceptions

  • First full rental period rent is not treated as part of the security deposit under the deposit definition.
  • Michigan requires tenant forwarding-address steps that affect deposit disputes.
  • Inventory checklists and landlord notices are central to preserving move-in and move-out evidence.

What to check in your lease

  • Deposit amount compared with 1.5 months' rent
  • Inventory checklist
  • Forwarding-address instructions
  • Bank or bond disclosure
  • 30-day itemized claim language

Primary source: Michigan Courts landlord-tenant benchbook

Landlord-Tenant Relationship Act; security deposit requirements

Last legally reviewed: 2026-08-01

This is educational information about Michigan deposit rules, not legal advice.

Check these Michigan deposit terms in your lease.

Does Michigan have a maximum residential late fee?

Michigan does not set a simple statewide numerical cap for ordinary residential late fees in the same way some states do. Renters should review whether the lease clearly states the amount, when it applies, whether it stacks daily, and whether the fee looks punitive compared with the missed payment.

Important exceptions

  • Michigan's Truth in Renting Act regulates prohibited lease provisions but does not provide a standalone residential late-fee percentage cap.
  • A late fee may still be challenged under broader contract principles if it functions like a penalty.
  • Local, subsidized-housing, or program-specific rules may add separate requirements.

What to check in your lease

  • Flat late fee amount
  • Daily or compounding fees
  • Grace period, if any
  • Administrative or collection fees
  • Whether the amount is clearly written

Primary source: Michigan Legislature MCL 554.633

Truth in Renting Act prohibited provisions

Last legally reviewed: 2026-08-01

Michigan late-fee disputes can be fact-specific; this page is educational information only.

Check the late-fee wording in your Michigan lease.

What can happen if you leave a Michigan lease early?

A Michigan renter who leaves early may face remaining-rent exposure, but the lease cannot release the landlord from a duty to mitigate damages. Michigan also restricts rent-acceleration provisions unless the lease explains the landlord's duty to minimize damages and the right to have a court determine the actual amount owed.

Important exceptions

  • Contractual early-termination clauses are separate from statutory mitigation and rent-acceleration rules.
  • Federal military protections may apply to qualifying servicemembers and dependents.
  • Landlord breach, possession issues, or habitability facts require separate review.

What to check in your lease

  • Rent acceleration clause
  • Mitigation/minimize damages language
  • Court-determination language
  • Early-termination fee
  • Military or habitability provisions

Primary source: Michigan Legislature MCL 554.633

Acceleration and mitigation provisions in rental agreements

Last legally reviewed: 2026-08-01

Do not treat this as permission to break a Michigan lease; remaining-rent exposure depends on the facts.

Review early-exit exposure in your Michigan lease.

Michigan Landlord-Tenant Law: What Your Lease Should Comply With

LeaseGuard checks every Michigan lease against 20 compliance rules tied to Michigan statutes and case law. Below is a topic-by-topic summary of the rules used by the LeaseGuard analysis engine. This is educational information about Michigan law, not legal advice.

Security Deposit Rules in Michigan

6 compliance checksMichigan-specific rules in the LeaseGuard engine. See the cross-state guide.

Security deposit exceeds statutory maximum

Critical

The stated security deposit of the stated deposit appears to exceed 1.5 months' rent (the monthly rent). Michigan Compiled Laws Section 554.602 generally limits security deposits to no more than 1.5 months' rent for residential tenancies. You may want to ask the landlord to reduce the deposit to comply with Michigan law.

What renters can do

You may want to ask the landlord to lower the security deposit to 1.5 months' rent or less. If the landlord insists on a higher amount, consider consulting a tenant-rights attorney before signing.

Source: MCL 554.602

Security deposit labeled as nonrefundable

Critical

This lease appears to describe the security deposit as "nonrefundable." Under Michigan Compiled Laws Section 554.602, security deposits must be refundable except for actual damages beyond normal wear and tear. Any deposit that functions as a security deposit is generally considered refundable under Michigan law.

What renters can do

You may want to ask the landlord to remove the nonrefundable language and confirm in writing that the deposit will be returned in accordance with Michigan law. If the landlord refuses, consider consulting an attorney.

Source: MCL 554.602

No security deposit return timeline specified

Medium

The lease does not appear to specify when the security deposit will be returned after you move out. Michigan Compiled Laws Section 554.602 generally requires landlords to return the deposit (or provide an itemized statement of deductions) within 30 calendar days of the tenant vacating the unit. You may want to confirm this timeline is understood by both parties.

What renters can do

Consider asking the landlord to add language confirming the 30-day return timeline required by Michigan law. Having this in writing may help avoid disputes at move-out.

Source: MCL 554.602

No mention of required security deposit interest

Medium

The lease does not appear to mention interest on the security deposit. Michigan Compiled Laws Section 554.602 generally requires landlords to pay 5% annual interest on security deposits held for more than one year. If your lease term is longer than one year, you may be entitled to this interest.

What renters can do

You may want to ask the landlord to clarify the interest provision for security deposits, especially if your lease term exceeds one year. Having this requirement documented in the lease may help ensure compliance.

Source: MCL 554.602

Security deposit deduction for normal wear and tear

Critical

The lease appears to claim the landlord may withhold part or all of the security deposit for normal wear and tear. Under Michigan Compiled Laws Section 554.602, a landlord may only deduct from the security deposit for damage beyond normal wear and tear or unpaid rent. Deducting for normal wear and tear is generally prohibited.

What renters can do

You may want to ask the landlord to revise this clause to clarify that deductions will only be made for damage beyond normal wear and tear, consistent with Michigan law. Consider documenting the condition of the unit at move-in with dated photos to help resolve any disputes at move-out.

Source: MCL 554.602

Combined pet deposit and security deposit may exceed statutory cap

High

The combined security deposit (the stated deposit) and pet deposit (the value in your lease) appears to exceed 1.5 months' rent (the monthly rent). Under Michigan Compiled Laws Section 554.602, the total of all deposits that function as security is generally limited to 1.5 months' rent. A separate pet deposit may be treated as part of the security deposit for the purpose of this cap unless clearly designated otherwise.

What renters can do

You may want to ask the landlord whether the combined total of all deposits complies with the Michigan security deposit limit. If it appears to exceed the cap, consider negotiating a reduction or asking the landlord to restructure the pet arrangement (for example, as a monthly pet rent instead of a deposit).

Source: MCL 554.602

Late Fee & Rent Rules in Michigan

11 compliance checksMichigan-specific rules in the LeaseGuard engine. See the cross-state guide.

Want to estimate your lease's late-fee exposure?

Use the free calculator to compare your rent and late fee against LeaseGuard's state rule data before you upload the full lease.

Open the late fee calculator

Security deposit exceeds statutory maximum

Critical

The stated security deposit of the stated deposit appears to exceed 1.5 months' rent (the monthly rent). Michigan Compiled Laws Section 554.602 generally limits security deposits to no more than 1.5 months' rent for residential tenancies. You may want to ask the landlord to reduce the deposit to comply with Michigan law.

What renters can do

You may want to ask the landlord to lower the security deposit to 1.5 months' rent or less. If the landlord insists on a higher amount, consider consulting a tenant-rights attorney before signing.

Source: MCL 554.602

Security deposit labeled as nonrefundable

Critical

This lease appears to describe the security deposit as "nonrefundable." Under Michigan Compiled Laws Section 554.602, security deposits must be refundable except for actual damages beyond normal wear and tear. Any deposit that functions as a security deposit is generally considered refundable under Michigan law.

What renters can do

You may want to ask the landlord to remove the nonrefundable language and confirm in writing that the deposit will be returned in accordance with Michigan law. If the landlord refuses, consider consulting an attorney.

Source: MCL 554.602

No security deposit return timeline specified

Medium

The lease does not appear to specify when the security deposit will be returned after you move out. Michigan Compiled Laws Section 554.602 generally requires landlords to return the deposit (or provide an itemized statement of deductions) within 30 calendar days of the tenant vacating the unit. You may want to confirm this timeline is understood by both parties.

What renters can do

Consider asking the landlord to add language confirming the 30-day return timeline required by Michigan law. Having this in writing may help avoid disputes at move-out.

Source: MCL 554.602

No mention of required security deposit interest

Medium

The lease does not appear to mention interest on the security deposit. Michigan Compiled Laws Section 554.602 generally requires landlords to pay 5% annual interest on security deposits held for more than one year. If your lease term is longer than one year, you may be entitled to this interest.

What renters can do

You may want to ask the landlord to clarify the interest provision for security deposits, especially if your lease term exceeds one year. Having this requirement documented in the lease may help ensure compliance.

Source: MCL 554.602

Security deposit deduction for normal wear and tear

Critical

The lease appears to claim the landlord may withhold part or all of the security deposit for normal wear and tear. Under Michigan Compiled Laws Section 554.602, a landlord may only deduct from the security deposit for damage beyond normal wear and tear or unpaid rent. Deducting for normal wear and tear is generally prohibited.

What renters can do

You may want to ask the landlord to revise this clause to clarify that deductions will only be made for damage beyond normal wear and tear, consistent with Michigan law. Consider documenting the condition of the unit at move-in with dated photos to help resolve any disputes at move-out.

Source: MCL 554.602

Late fee may be unreasonably high

High

The late fee of the late fee appears to exceed 8% of the monthly rent (the monthly rent). Michigan has no statute specifically capping residential late fees -- courts apply a common-law reasonableness standard requiring a fee to correlate with the landlord's actual costs from late payment rather than function as a penalty. Industry sources commonly treat 5% as comfortably defensible and 10% as the practical outer boundary.

What renters can do

You may want to ask the landlord whether the late fee reflects actual costs incurred from late payment. There is no fixed legal ceiling in Michigan, so a higher fee is not automatically unlawful, but it can still be challenged as an unenforceable penalty if disproportionate.

Source: Michigan common law reasonableness standard (no residential late-fee statute)

No grace period for late rent payment

Medium

The lease does not appear to specify a grace period before late fees take effect. While Michigan law does not mandate a specific grace period, many leases include one (commonly 3 to 5 days). Without a stated grace period, a late fee could theoretically apply on the day after rent is due.

What renters can do

You may want to ask the landlord to include a grace period (for example, 3 to 5 days) before late fees apply. This is a common lease provision and may help protect you from fees caused by minor payment delays.

Source: Michigan common law; general Michigan landlord-tenant practice

Rent increase notice period too short

High

The lease appears to allow rent increases with only the value in your lease days of notice. Michigan Compiled Laws Section 554.134 generally requires at least 30 days' written notice for rent increases in month-to-month tenancies. A notice period shorter than 30 days may not comply with this requirement.

What renters can do

You may want to ask the landlord to revise the notice period to at least 30 days to align with Michigan law. Also note that Michigan law prohibits rent control, so there are no statutory caps on the amount of rent increases.

Source: MCL 554.134

Combined pet deposit and security deposit may exceed statutory cap

High

The combined security deposit (the stated deposit) and pet deposit (the value in your lease) appears to exceed 1.5 months' rent (the monthly rent). Under Michigan Compiled Laws Section 554.602, the total of all deposits that function as security is generally limited to 1.5 months' rent. A separate pet deposit may be treated as part of the security deposit for the purpose of this cap unless clearly designated otherwise.

What renters can do

You may want to ask the landlord whether the combined total of all deposits complies with the Michigan security deposit limit. If it appears to exceed the cap, consider negotiating a reduction or asking the landlord to restructure the pet arrangement (for example, as a monthly pet rent instead of a deposit).

Source: MCL 554.602

Total monthly non-rent fees may be excessive

High

The total of recurring monthly fees (not including base rent) appears to exceed 20% of your monthly rent (the monthly rent). While individual fees may each be lawful under Michigan law, the cumulative effect can significantly increase your actual monthly housing cost. Fees identified include pet fees, parking fees, and similar recurring charges.

What renters can do

You may want to add up all monthly charges beyond base rent to understand your true monthly cost. Consider asking the landlord whether any of these fees are negotiable or whether some can be bundled into the base rent for clarity. Understanding the full cost picture before signing may help you budget more accurately.

Source: General Michigan landlord-tenant practice; MCL 554.134

Retaliation for tenant complaints or organizing

Critical

The lease appears to contain language threatening adverse action (such as a rent increase, decrease in services, or termination) if the tenant makes complaints about housing conditions or exercises tenant rights. Under Michigan Compiled Laws Section 554.139, it is generally illegal for a landlord to retaliate against a tenant for exercising their legal rights, including making complaints about housing conditions. This protection lasts for 90 days after the tenant complaint.

What renters can do

You may want to ask the landlord to remove this clause immediately, as anti-retaliation provisions are a fundamental tenant protection under Michigan law. The presence of this language is a serious red flag. If the landlord refuses to remove it, you may want to consult a tenant-rights attorney before signing.

Source: MCL 554.139

Renewal, Termination & Notice Periods in Michigan

4 compliance checksMichigan-specific rules in the LeaseGuard engine.

Potentially excessive early termination fee

High

The early termination fee of the value in your lease appears to exceed two months' rent (the monthly rent). While Michigan law does not set a specific cap on early termination fees, courts may evaluate whether such fees represent a reasonable estimate of the landlord's actual damages or function as an unenforceable penalty. A fee significantly above two months' rent may be considered unreasonable.

What renters can do

You may want to negotiate a lower early termination fee or ask the landlord to explain how the fee amount was determined. If the fee seems disproportionate to the landlord's likely costs, consider requesting a reduction or adding a clause requiring the landlord to mitigate damages by re-renting the unit.

Source: Michigan common law; MCL 554.134

Missing domestic violence early termination provision

Medium

The lease does not appear to mention early termination rights for domestic violence victims. Michigan Compiled Laws Section 554.601b generally allows tenants to terminate a lease early if they are victims of domestic violence and can provide appropriate documentation such as a court order or police report.

What renters can do

You may want to ask the landlord to include language acknowledging the domestic violence early termination protections available under Michigan law. While this right exists regardless of whether it's mentioned in the lease, having it documented may be helpful.

Source: MCL 554.601b

Self-help eviction language detected

Critical

The lease appears to authorize the landlord to change locks, remove tenant belongings, or shut off utilities without a court order. Under Michigan Compiled Laws Sections 600.2918 and 554.134, a landlord is generally prohibited from engaging in any form of self-help eviction. A landlord who wishes to remove a tenant must generally obtain a court order through proper legal proceedings. Self-help eviction provisions are typically void and unenforceable.

What renters can do

You may want to ask the landlord to remove this clause entirely, as self-help eviction is generally illegal in Michigan. If the landlord refuses to remove this language, you may want to consult a tenant-rights attorney before signing. The presence of this clause may signal a willingness to engage in unlawful eviction practices.

Source: MCL 600.2918; MCL 554.134

Retaliation for tenant complaints or organizing

Critical

The lease appears to contain language threatening adverse action (such as a rent increase, decrease in services, or termination) if the tenant makes complaints about housing conditions or exercises tenant rights. Under Michigan Compiled Laws Section 554.139, it is generally illegal for a landlord to retaliate against a tenant for exercising their legal rights, including making complaints about housing conditions. This protection lasts for 90 days after the tenant complaint.

What renters can do

You may want to ask the landlord to remove this clause immediately, as anti-retaliation provisions are a fundamental tenant protection under Michigan law. The presence of this language is a serious red flag. If the landlord refuses to remove it, you may want to consult a tenant-rights attorney before signing.

Source: MCL 554.139

Maintenance & Habitability in Michigan

1 compliance checkMichigan-specific rules in the LeaseGuard engine.

Tenant appears to waive habitability rights

Critical

The lease appears to contain language asking the tenant to waive or disclaim the warranty of habitability. Under Michigan case law (Roma v. Walker) and housing codes, a residential tenant generally cannot waive the implied warranty of habitability, and lease provisions attempting to do so are typically unenforceable. This warranty requires the landlord to maintain the property in a condition fit for human occupation.

What renters can do

You may want to ask the landlord to remove any language that purports to waive your habitability rights. Even if such a clause remains in the lease, it is likely unenforceable under Michigan law. However, its presence may signal the landlord's approach to maintenance responsibilities. If the landlord refuses to remove this language, consulting a tenant-rights attorney before signing is strongly advisable.

Source: Roma v. Walker, 38 Mich App 458 (1972); MCL 125.1504

Required Disclosures in Michigan

3 compliance checksMichigan-specific rules in the LeaseGuard engine.

Missing Truth in Renting Act disclosure

High

The lease does not appear to include the Truth in Renting Act disclosure. Michigan Compiled Laws Section 554.634 generally requires landlords to provide tenants with information about their rights under Michigan law. The absence of this disclosure may indicate a compliance gap and could result in penalties for the landlord.

What renters can do

You may want to ask the landlord to provide the Truth in Renting Act disclosure required by Michigan law. This disclosure contains important information about your rights as a tenant in Michigan.

Source: MCL 554.634

Missing landlord identity disclosure

Medium

The lease does not appear to identify the person authorized to manage the premises and receive notices. Michigan Compiled Laws Section 554.634 generally requires landlords to disclose the identity of the person authorized to manage the premises and receive legal notices on behalf of the landlord.

What renters can do

You may want to ask the landlord to provide the name and contact information of the person authorized to manage the property and receive notices, as required by Michigan law. Having this information is important for communicating about repairs and other tenancy matters.

Source: MCL 554.634

Missing lead paint disclosure for potentially older property

High

The lease does not appear to include a lead-based paint disclosure. Under federal law (42 USC 4852d), landlords of housing built before 1978 are generally required to disclose known lead-based paint hazards and provide an EPA-approved information pamphlet. If this property was built before 1978, the absence of this disclosure may indicate a compliance gap.

What renters can do

You may want to ask the landlord when the property was built. If it was constructed before 1978, request the required lead-based paint disclosure and the EPA pamphlet "Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home." This is especially important if children will reside in the unit.

Source: 42 USC 4852d

Dispute Resolution & Tenant Protections in Michigan

13 compliance checksMichigan-specific rules in the LeaseGuard engine.

Security deposit labeled as nonrefundable

Critical

This lease appears to describe the security deposit as "nonrefundable." Under Michigan Compiled Laws Section 554.602, security deposits must be refundable except for actual damages beyond normal wear and tear. Any deposit that functions as a security deposit is generally considered refundable under Michigan law.

What renters can do

You may want to ask the landlord to remove the nonrefundable language and confirm in writing that the deposit will be returned in accordance with Michigan law. If the landlord refuses, consider consulting an attorney.

Source: MCL 554.602

No security deposit return timeline specified

Medium

The lease does not appear to specify when the security deposit will be returned after you move out. Michigan Compiled Laws Section 554.602 generally requires landlords to return the deposit (or provide an itemized statement of deductions) within 30 calendar days of the tenant vacating the unit. You may want to confirm this timeline is understood by both parties.

What renters can do

Consider asking the landlord to add language confirming the 30-day return timeline required by Michigan law. Having this in writing may help avoid disputes at move-out.

Source: MCL 554.602

No mention of required security deposit interest

Medium

The lease does not appear to mention interest on the security deposit. Michigan Compiled Laws Section 554.602 generally requires landlords to pay 5% annual interest on security deposits held for more than one year. If your lease term is longer than one year, you may be entitled to this interest.

What renters can do

You may want to ask the landlord to clarify the interest provision for security deposits, especially if your lease term exceeds one year. Having this requirement documented in the lease may help ensure compliance.

Source: MCL 554.602

Security deposit deduction for normal wear and tear

Critical

The lease appears to claim the landlord may withhold part or all of the security deposit for normal wear and tear. Under Michigan Compiled Laws Section 554.602, a landlord may only deduct from the security deposit for damage beyond normal wear and tear or unpaid rent. Deducting for normal wear and tear is generally prohibited.

What renters can do

You may want to ask the landlord to revise this clause to clarify that deductions will only be made for damage beyond normal wear and tear, consistent with Michigan law. Consider documenting the condition of the unit at move-in with dated photos to help resolve any disputes at move-out.

Source: MCL 554.602

Missing Truth in Renting Act disclosure

High

The lease does not appear to include the Truth in Renting Act disclosure. Michigan Compiled Laws Section 554.634 generally requires landlords to provide tenants with information about their rights under Michigan law. The absence of this disclosure may indicate a compliance gap and could result in penalties for the landlord.

What renters can do

You may want to ask the landlord to provide the Truth in Renting Act disclosure required by Michigan law. This disclosure contains important information about your rights as a tenant in Michigan.

Source: MCL 554.634

Missing landlord identity disclosure

Medium

The lease does not appear to identify the person authorized to manage the premises and receive notices. Michigan Compiled Laws Section 554.634 generally requires landlords to disclose the identity of the person authorized to manage the premises and receive legal notices on behalf of the landlord.

What renters can do

You may want to ask the landlord to provide the name and contact information of the person authorized to manage the property and receive notices, as required by Michigan law. Having this information is important for communicating about repairs and other tenancy matters.

Source: MCL 554.634

Missing lead paint disclosure for potentially older property

High

The lease does not appear to include a lead-based paint disclosure. Under federal law (42 USC 4852d), landlords of housing built before 1978 are generally required to disclose known lead-based paint hazards and provide an EPA-approved information pamphlet. If this property was built before 1978, the absence of this disclosure may indicate a compliance gap.

What renters can do

You may want to ask the landlord when the property was built. If it was constructed before 1978, request the required lead-based paint disclosure and the EPA pamphlet "Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home." This is especially important if children will reside in the unit.

Source: 42 USC 4852d

Missing domestic violence early termination provision

Medium

The lease does not appear to mention early termination rights for domestic violence victims. Michigan Compiled Laws Section 554.601b generally allows tenants to terminate a lease early if they are victims of domestic violence and can provide appropriate documentation such as a court order or police report.

What renters can do

You may want to ask the landlord to include language acknowledging the domestic violence early termination protections available under Michigan law. While this right exists regardless of whether it's mentioned in the lease, having it documented may be helpful.

Source: MCL 554.601b

One-way attorney fee clause favoring landlord

High

The lease appears to include an attorney fee clause that benefits only the landlord. Unlike some other states, Michigan does not have a general statute making one-sided attorney fee clauses reciprocal. This means if a dispute arises and you prevail, you may not be entitled to recover your attorney fees even though the landlord would be entitled to fees if they prevail.

What renters can do

You may want to ask the landlord to make the attorney fee clause reciprocal, meaning the prevailing party in any dispute would be entitled to recover attorney fees. This creates a more balanced arrangement and may encourage resolution of disputes without litigation.

Source: Michigan common law; no reciprocity statute

Tenant appears to waive habitability rights

Critical

The lease appears to contain language asking the tenant to waive or disclaim the warranty of habitability. Under Michigan case law (Roma v. Walker) and housing codes, a residential tenant generally cannot waive the implied warranty of habitability, and lease provisions attempting to do so are typically unenforceable. This warranty requires the landlord to maintain the property in a condition fit for human occupation.

What renters can do

You may want to ask the landlord to remove any language that purports to waive your habitability rights. Even if such a clause remains in the lease, it is likely unenforceable under Michigan law. However, its presence may signal the landlord's approach to maintenance responsibilities. If the landlord refuses to remove this language, consulting a tenant-rights attorney before signing is strongly advisable.

Source: Roma v. Walker, 38 Mich App 458 (1972); MCL 125.1504

Self-help eviction language detected

Critical

The lease appears to authorize the landlord to change locks, remove tenant belongings, or shut off utilities without a court order. Under Michigan Compiled Laws Sections 600.2918 and 554.134, a landlord is generally prohibited from engaging in any form of self-help eviction. A landlord who wishes to remove a tenant must generally obtain a court order through proper legal proceedings. Self-help eviction provisions are typically void and unenforceable.

What renters can do

You may want to ask the landlord to remove this clause entirely, as self-help eviction is generally illegal in Michigan. If the landlord refuses to remove this language, you may want to consult a tenant-rights attorney before signing. The presence of this clause may signal a willingness to engage in unlawful eviction practices.

Source: MCL 600.2918; MCL 554.134

Retaliation for tenant complaints or organizing

Critical

The lease appears to contain language threatening adverse action (such as a rent increase, decrease in services, or termination) if the tenant makes complaints about housing conditions or exercises tenant rights. Under Michigan Compiled Laws Section 554.139, it is generally illegal for a landlord to retaliate against a tenant for exercising their legal rights, including making complaints about housing conditions. This protection lasts for 90 days after the tenant complaint.

What renters can do

You may want to ask the landlord to remove this clause immediately, as anti-retaliation provisions are a fundamental tenant protection under Michigan law. The presence of this language is a serious red flag. If the landlord refuses to remove it, you may want to consult a tenant-rights attorney before signing.

Source: MCL 554.139

Confession of judgment clause

Critical

The lease appears to contain a confession of judgment clause, in which the tenant agrees in advance to allow a judgment to be entered against them without notice or the opportunity to be heard. Under Michigan Compiled Laws Section 554.634(1)(k), confessions of judgment are generally prohibited in residential leases and are void and unenforceable. This type of clause attempts to strip the tenant of fundamental due process rights.

What renters can do

You may want to ask the landlord to remove this clause entirely, as confessions of judgment are generally prohibited in Michigan residential leases. The presence of this provision is a serious concern and may indicate other problematic terms in the lease. Consider consulting a tenant-rights attorney before signing if the landlord refuses to remove it.

Source: MCL 554.634(1)(k)

Want this checked against your specific lease? Upload your Michigan lease and LeaseGuard runs every rule above against your exact lease wording, returns a risk score, and generates a ready-to-send negotiation letter.

Run a Michigan lease review — $19

Michigan lease review FAQ

What does LeaseGuard focus on first in a Michigan lease review?

The first pass focuses on the clauses most likely to create money or access disputes in Michigan: security deposit terms, entry notice wording, late-fee language, and any state-specific disclosure or timeline requirements mentioned in the lease.

Why does the Michigan page talk so much about deposits and fees?

Michigan limits security deposits to 1.5 months' rent. Michigan does not set a residential statutory late-fee cap; LeaseGuard treats unusually high fees as a common-law reasonableness issue. Those money terms are often where lease language drifts away from what renters expect, so they are a high-value part of every Michigan review.

What kinds of Michigan lease clauses should renters double-check before signing?

Michigan has limited entry notice requirements. In practice, renters in Michigan should also double-check clauses about move-out deductions, notice periods, add-on fees, and any lease language that tries to waive standard protections or shift too much risk to the tenant.

Ready to review your Michigan lease?

Upload your lease and get a full risk report with 20 Michigan-specific compliance checks — for just $19.

Especially useful if you want a second pass on 1.5 months' max deposit and required inventory checklist before you sign.

Analyze Your Lease

This page provides general information about Michigan landlord-tenant law for educational purposes only. It is not legal advice. Laws change frequently — always verify current requirements with a licensed attorney in Michigan.

This Michigan overview is designed to help renters understand the issues LeaseGuard checks most closely there, especially around 1.5 months' max deposit, required inventory checklist, 30-day deposit return. It is educational guidance, not legal advice, and local ordinances can add extra rules on top of statewide law.