Just Cause Eviction: Dearborn vs Detroit

Can my Dearborn landlord evict me without cause?

Yes, a landlord may terminate a month-to-month tenancy without stating a reason, provided they give 30 days written notice and follow Michigan summary proceedings law.

How much notice must I receive before eviction?

Seven days for nonpayment of rent or health hazards, and 30 days for termination of tenancy or most other lease violations.

Does Detroit have a just-cause eviction law?

No. Detroit has not enacted a just-cause or good-cause eviction ordinance. Residential evictions in the City of Detroit are governed by Michigan's Summary Proceedings statute (MCL 600.5701 et seq.), which lists the available grounds for recovering possession. A landlord may terminate a month-to-month tenancy with the statutory notice under MCL 554.134 without proving a 'just cause' beyond that notice.

What is Detroit's Right to Counsel ordinance?

Detroit's Right to Counsel ordinance, enacted by City Council in May 2022 and effective October 1, 2022, guarantees free legal representation to tenants facing eviction whose household income is at or below 200% of the federal poverty level. The program is administered by the Office of Eviction Defense within the Detroit Law Department. Right to Counsel provides procedural defense and counsel during 36th District Court summary proceedings; it does not change the substantive grounds for eviction or impose a just-cause requirement.

Can a Detroit landlord lock out a tenant directly without going to court?

No. Michigan's Anti-Lockout Statute (MCL 600.2918) prohibits self-help eviction throughout the state, including in Detroit. A landlord must file in 36th District Court and obtain an order of eviction. Self-help (lockouts, utility shut-offs, removal of belongings) exposes the landlord to actual damages, treble damages or $200 (whichever is greater), and attorney fees, plus tenant-anti-harassment exposure under the City's 2024 rental-ordinance amendments.