Updated on September 25th, 2021
A Michigan standard residential lease agreement allows two (2) parties, a landlord and a tenant, to enter into a residential rental arrangement by establishing the terms and conditions in a written document. By signing the lease agreement, the parties are legally bound to the terms therein, including all rights, obligations, and liabilities.
A lease is signed by the landlord and tenant only after they have agreed to the length of the lease, the amount of rent the tenant must pay, the rent due date, and they have performed a walk-through of the rental unit. Any deposits, for security, pets, or other insurance purposes, shall be established in the document and paid by the tenant before the move-in date.
Rental Laws – Act 348 of 1972 (Landlord and Tenant Relationships)
Handbook (Guide) – A Practical Guide to Landlords & Tenants
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Security Deposits
Maximum (§ 554.602) – One and a Half (1.5) Months’ Rent
Returning (§ 554.609 and 610) – Thirty (30) Days
When is Rent Due?
The rent payment date isn’t established in Michigan law; the landlord must state the rent due date in the lease.
Disclosures (5) |
A notice must be written in the contract, posted on the property, or delivered to the tenant that states clearly that any tenant who believes they are in present danger may be released from their obligation to pay monthly rent.
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Landlords must provide two (2) copies of an inventory checklist so the tenant can confirm the condition of the rental property before moving in. The second part of the checklist will be completed by the landlord once the tenant moves out.
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3) Lead-Based Paint Disclosure A disclosure must be delivered to tenants who are renting property that was built prior to 1978.
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If the landlord demands a security deposit from a tenant, written notice must be provided that includes the landlord’s name and address, the name and address of the financial institution where the deposit is held, and states the tenant’s obligation to provide their forwarding address after moving out. |
All lease agreements must contain the following statement to be in compliance with the Truth in Renting Act: NOTICE: Michigan law establishes rights and obligations for parties to rental agreements. This agreement is required to comply with the Truth in Renting Act. If you have a question about the interpretation or legality of a provision of this agreement, you may want to seek assistance from a lawyer or other qualified person.
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