Michigan Just Cause Eviction Law (2026)

Key Facts

Governing Statute: MCL 600.5701-5759
Nonpayment Notice: 7 days written demand
Termination Notice: 30 days month-to-month
Lockout Penalty: Treble damages, MCL 600.2918

Full Breakdown

Evictions in Michigan must proceed under the Summary Proceedings Act, MCL 600.5701 et seq. Landlords serve a written demand for possession (commonly 7 days for nonpayment, 30 days for termination of tenancy, 24 hours for serious health-hazard or illegal-drug situations) before filing a complaint in district court. Self-help eviction, lockouts, and utility shutoffs are prohibited under the anti-lockout statute MCL 600.2918, exposing landlords to treble damages. Michigan does not impose a statewide just-cause requirement for ending month-to-month tenancies, but landlords cannot retaliate for protected tenant activity under MCL 600.5720. The statutory framework applies in every county.

Violations & Penalties

Self-help lockouts trigger treble damages plus $200 minimum under MCL 600.2918; defective notices result in case dismissal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Michigan require just cause to evict?

No statewide just-cause rule exists. Landlords may end month-to-month tenancies with 30 days written notice, subject to anti-retaliation and fair-housing protections.

Can a Michigan landlord change locks to evict a tenant?

No. MCL 600.2918 forbids self-help eviction. Locking out, removing doors, or shutting off utilities exposes landlords to treble damages and statutory penalties.

How much notice is required for nonpayment of rent?

Michigan requires a 7-day written demand for possession before filing a nonpayment eviction in district court under the Summary Proceedings Act.

Michigan Statewide Eviction Procedure and Notice Requirements

Key Facts

Full Breakdown

Violations & Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

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