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Michigan Security Deposit Limits
Maximum deposit: 1.5 months' rent.
Statute: Mich. Comp. Laws §§ 554.601–554.616
Full text: Read the law
Return Deadline & Requirements
Landlord must return the deposit or provide an itemized list of damages within 30 days after the tenant moves out.
Itemized Statement Required: Required. Must include an itemized list of damages and remaining deposit balance. Must be mailed to tenant's last known address by first-class mail.
Move-Out Inspection
Landlord must provide a move-in checklist and inventory at the start of tenancy. Both parties should sign it.
Allowed & Prohibited Deductions
What Landlords CAN Deduct
- Unpaid rent
- Damages beyond normal wear and tear
- Utility charges owed
What Landlords CANNOT Deduct
- Normal wear and tear
- Pre-existing damage documented in move-in checklist
Penalties for Violations
Landlord Penalties: If landlord fails to provide itemized list or return deposit within 30 days, tenant can recover 2x the deposit amount. Landlord also loses the right to claim any damages.
Where to file: Small Claims Court (up to $6,500)
Interest Requirements
Michigan does not require landlords to pay interest on security deposits.
How to Get Your Michigan Security Deposit Back
If your landlord is withholding your deposit wrongfully, here's what to do:
- Document everything at move-out — Take photos and video of the unit's condition. Do a walkthrough if your state allows it.
- Provide your forwarding address in writing — Many states don't start the return clock until you provide this.
- Wait for the deadline to pass — Give your landlord the full 30 days required by law.
- Send a demand letter — If the deadline passes without your deposit, send a formal demand letter citing Mich. Comp. Laws §§ 554.601–554.616.
- File in court — If the demand letter doesn't work, file in Small Claims Court (up to $6,500). You may recover additional penalties.
Get Your Security Deposit Back
Create a free demand letter for your Michigan security deposit dispute. Cites MI law automatically.
Create Free Demand LetterFrequently Asked Questions
How long does a Michigan landlord have to return a security deposit?
30 days after the tenant moves out. The landlord must mail the deposit or an itemized list of damages to the tenant's last known address via first-class mail.
What is the security deposit limit in Michigan?
1.5 months' rent. A landlord cannot charge more than this amount regardless of the property type.
What happens if my Michigan landlord doesn't return the deposit in 30 days?
You can recover 2x the deposit amount in court. The landlord also loses the right to claim any damages against the deposit, even if there was legitimate damage.
Does Michigan require a move-in checklist?
Yes. Landlords must provide an inventory checklist at the start of tenancy documenting the condition of the unit. This protects both parties when determining damages at move-out.
More Resources: All State Guides | Security Deposit Demand Letter Guide | Demand Letter Templates