Michigan
Security deposit laws in Michigan
The Michigan-specific deadline, what you can deduct, and how to write a compliant itemized statement — with statutory citations.
Return deadline
30 days
Generally within 30 days after the tenant vacates; the itemized list must be mailed within 30 days and the refund within 45 days. The tenant must respond to the itemization within 7 days.
Source: Michigan Compiled Laws Sections 554.601 to 554.616
What landlords can deduct
- Itemized list of damages must be mailed within 30 days.
- Refund the balance within 45 days of move-out.
- Do not deduct for normal wear and tear.
- The tenant has 7 days to respond to the itemization — request that they do so in writing.
Receipts & documentation
- Mail an itemized list of deductions within 30 days of move-out.
- If estimates are used (work incomplete), the itemization must say so and a final accounting follows within the 45-day refund window.
- Refund the balance within 45 days of move-out.
Gray areas to review carefully
Dual 30/45-day deadlines
Michigan requires the itemized list within 30 days AND the refund within 45 days — two distinct obligations.
Tenant's 7-day response window
The tenant has 7 days to respond to the itemized list. Document their response (or lack of one).
Normal wear and tear vs. damage
Only damage beyond normal wear and tear is deductible.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Michigan?
Generally 30 days. Generally within 30 days after the tenant vacates; the itemized list must be mailed within 30 days and the refund within 45 days. The tenant must respond to the itemization within 7 days. Source: Michigan Compiled Laws Sections 554.601 to 554.616. This is a general rule — verify your specific situation and any local ordinances.
Is an itemized statement required in Michigan?
Yes. Michigan requires a written itemized list of deductions. Itemized list of damages must be mailed within 30 days.
Can a landlord deduct for "normal wear and tear" in Michigan?
No. Every US state (including Michigan) excludes normal wear and tear from deductibility. Only damage beyond ordinary wear — such as stains, burns, large holes, or breakage — is typically deductible. Compare move-in and move-out photos for each item.
What happens if the landlord misses the deadline in Michigan?
Michigan requires the itemized list within 30 days AND the refund within 45 days — two distinct obligations.
Does MoveOutGuard support Michigan?
Yes — MoveOutGuard generates a Michigan-specific deduction letter using the deadline (30 days) and citation (Michigan Compiled Laws Sections 554.601 to 554.616) above. Upload your receipts and move-out photos and the AI drafts an itemized letter for human review.
Draft your Michigan letter in minutes
Upload receipts and photos. Get a Michigan-specific itemized deduction letter for human review.
MoveOutGuard is a document preparation and evidence organization tool. It is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. Drafts, checklists, and deadline estimates require your review and are not a guarantee of compliance or outcomes. For legal questions, consult a licensed attorney.