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Michigan security deposit law
Short answer: A Michigan landlord has 30 days after the tenant moves out to mail an itemized notice of damages with a check for the rest, or must return the full deposit. Deposits are capped at one and a half months' rent, and move-in and move-out inventory checklists are required by law.
| Deadline to return the deposit | 30 days after the tenant moves out to mail the itemized notice of damages and the balance. To keep disputed money, the landlord must file suit within 45 days of move-out, unless the tenant agreed in writing, didn't respond to the notice, or didn't give a forwarding address. |
|---|---|
| Limit on how much a landlord can charge | One and a half months' rent. |
| Itemized list of deductions | Yes. The notice of damages must list each item, the estimated cost of each repair, and the amounts the landlord intends to charge. It must also include a bold warning that the tenant has 7 days to respond by mail. |
| Interest on the deposit | Not required by state law. |
| Penalty if the landlord breaks the rules | A landlord who misses the 30-day notice is treated as agreeing no damages are owed and must return the full deposit right away. A landlord who doesn't follow the court-filing rules waives all claimed damages and owes the tenant double the amount kept. |
| What the tenant has to do | Send the landlord a forwarding address in writing within 4 days of moving out. When a notice of damages arrives, respond by mail within 7 days saying what you agree or disagree with, or you can lose the disputed amount. |
| The law | Michigan Compiled Laws Sections 554.601 to 554.616 (Security Deposits Act) |
Official law: Michigan Compiled Laws Sections 554.601 to 554.616 (Security Deposits Act). Checked against the statute on 2026-11-04.
Good to know
- Michigan requires inventory checklists. At move-in the landlord gives the tenant two blank checklists, and the tenant returns one within 7 days noting the condition of everything. At move-out the landlord completes a matching checklist of damages.
- A tenant can ask to see the last move-out checklist, to see what the previous tenant was charged for.
- If the landlord refunds electronically, the money must land within 10 days of mailing the notice.
Tips for landlords
- Do a written move-in inspection and have the tenant sign it. Take dated photos of every room, including inside appliances and closets.
- Collect the tenant's forwarding address in writing at move-out.
- Put the itemized list and the refund in the mail well before the deadline, and keep proof of mailing.
- Normal wear and tear (faded paint, light carpet wear, small nail holes) usually can't be charged. Damage beyond that can.
Tips for tenants
- Take your own dated photos and video on move-in day and move-out day.
- Give your landlord your forwarding address in writing, and keep a copy.
- If the deadline passes, send a written demand letter that cites the law above before going to small claims court.
Common questions
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Michigan?
30 days after the tenant moves out to mail the itemized notice of damages and the balance. To keep disputed money, the landlord must file suit within 45 days of move-out, unless the tenant agreed in writing, didn't respond to the notice, or didn't give a forwarding address.
Is there a limit on security deposits in Michigan?
One and a half months' rent.
Does a landlord in Michigan have to itemize deductions?
Yes. The notice of damages must list each item, the estimated cost of each repair, and the amounts the landlord intends to charge. It must also include a bold warning that the tenant has 7 days to respond by mail.