Michigan Security Deposit Law at a Glance
Governing Statute
Mich. Comp. Laws §554.602 to §554.616 — Security Deposit Act
Return Deadline
Your landlord must return your deposit or provide an itemized statement within 30 calendar days after termination of tenancy.
Penalty for Non-Return
If your landlord fails to return your deposit or provide an itemized statement within 30 calendar days, you may be entitled to double the amount wrongfully withheld under Mich. Comp. Laws §554.613.
Key Facts
- Maximum deposit: 1.5 months rent
- Itemization required: Within 30 calendar days
- Small claims limit: $6,500
- Walk-through inspection: Tenant has the right to a move-out inspection
Additional Protections
- Landlord must provide tenant with inventory checklist at move-in
- Landlord must provide itemized list of damages within 30 days
- Deposit must be held in regulated financial institution
- Tenant has right to dispute damages through response within 7 days
What Your Michigan Demand Letter Includes
Every letter is built from Michigan's actual statute — not a generic template.
Exact Statute Citation
Mich. Comp. Laws §554.602 to §554.616 cited by section number. Your landlord sees you know the law.
Calculated Deadline
30 calendar days from your move-out date, computed automatically from your specific dates.
Penalty Warning
double the amount wrongfully withheld — cited so your landlord knows the cost of non-compliance.
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Michigan Security Deposit FAQ
How long does my landlord have to return my security deposit in Michigan?
Under Mich. Comp. Laws §554.602 to §554.616, your landlord has 30 calendar days after termination of tenancy to return your security deposit or provide an itemized statement of deductions.
What happens if my Michigan landlord doesn't return my deposit on time?
If your landlord fails to return your deposit within the legal deadline, you may be entitled to double the amount wrongfully withheld under Mich. Comp. Laws §554.613. You can pursue this in small claims court.
What is the maximum security deposit a landlord can charge in Michigan?
Under Mich. Comp. Laws §554.602, the maximum security deposit in Michigan is 1.5 months rent.
Does my Michigan landlord have to itemize deductions from my deposit?
Yes. Michigan law requires landlords to provide an itemized list of deductions within 30 calendar days of move-out.
Can I sue my landlord in small claims court in Michigan?
Yes. Michigan small claims court handles cases up to $6,500. Security deposit disputes are one of the most common small claims cases.
Do I need a lawyer to send a security deposit demand letter in Michigan?
No. A demand letter is a formal written request, not a lawsuit. You can send one yourself. Our tool generates a Michigan-specific demand letter citing Mich. Comp. Laws §554.602 to §554.616 so your landlord knows you understand your rights.
Security Deposit Demand Letters by State
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