Michigan Deposit Itemization Law at a Glance
Governing Statute
Mich. Comp. Laws §554.602 to 554.616 — Security Deposits
Itemization Requirement
Your landlord must provide an itemized statement of deductions within 30 calendar days after termination of tenancy.
Allowable Deductions
Unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear to the premises or furnishings. Landlord cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
Normal Wear & Tear
Deterioration that occurs from the normal use of the premises by the tenant during the term of tenancy.
Penalty for Wrongful Withholding
If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit or fails to provide proper itemization, 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 move-in inventory checklist
- Failure to provide checklist limits landlord's right to claim damages
- Deposit must be held in a regulated financial institution
What Your Michigan Dispute Letter Includes
Every letter is built from Michigan's actual statute — not a generic template.
Itemization Requirements
Mich. Comp. Laws §554.602 to 554.616 cited by section number. Your landlord sees you know the specific rules they must follow.
Disputed Deductions
Each disputed charge identified with your specific reasons, tied to Michigan law.
Wear & Tear Standard
Deterioration that occurs from the normal use of the premises by the tenant during the term of tenancy...
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Michigan Deposit Itemization FAQ
What are the security deposit itemization requirements in Michigan?
Under Mich. Comp. Laws §554.602 to 554.616, your landlord is required to provide an itemized statement of deductions within 30 calendar days after termination of tenancy. The itemization must list each deduction, the amount, and the reason.
What deductions can my Michigan landlord legally take from my deposit?
In Michigan, allowable deductions are limited to: Unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear to the premises or furnishings. Your landlord cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
What counts as normal wear and tear in Michigan?
In Michigan: Deterioration that occurs from the normal use of the premises by the tenant during the term of tenancy. Examples include minor scuffs on walls, worn carpet from foot traffic, faded paint, and small nail holes.
What happens if my Michigan landlord wrongfully withholds my deposit?
If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit or fails to provide proper itemization, you may be entitled to double the amount wrongfully withheld under Mich. Comp. Laws §554.613. You can pursue this in small claims court.
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 dispute deposit deductions in Michigan?
No. A dispute letter is a formal written challenge, not a lawsuit. You can send one yourself. Our tool generates a Michigan-specific dispute letter citing Mich. Comp. Laws §554.602 to 554.616 and your state's itemization requirements so your landlord knows you understand your rights.
Deposit Itemization Dispute Letters by State
Select your state to see your specific rights and generate your letter.