Is There Rent Control in Michigan? 2025 Renter's Guide

If you’re renting in Michigan, you may be wondering whether there are any rent control or rent stabilization laws to help protect you from sudden or unreasonable rent increases. Understanding your rights as a tenant under current Michigan law is essential, especially as housing costs continue to be a concern for many residents. This guide explains the current rules, provides practical examples, and highlights resources just for Michigan renters.

Does Michigan Have Rent Control or Rent Stabilization Laws?

As of 2025, Michigan does not have any rent control or rent stabilization laws at the state or local level. This means that, in most cases, landlords are allowed to set initial rent amounts and increase rent when a lease is renewed, with very few restrictions under state legislation.^[1]

Michigan law specifically prohibits cities and municipalities from enacting local rent control ordinances. This rule has been in place since 1988, under the Michigan Compiled Laws Section 123.411. As a result, no city or county in Michigan can create its own rent control program.

How Do Rent Increases Work in Michigan?

With no rent control, landlords in Michigan have significant freedom to raise the rent. However, there are some important rules to protect renters:

• Landlords can only increase rent after the current lease expires or as specified by your lease agreement.
• They must provide proper written notice before increasing rent:
• 30 days’ notice for month-to-month tenants
• The notice period for fixed-term leases is dictated by your written lease
• Discrimination and retaliatory rent increases are still illegal under state and federal law.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

While Michigan does not provide a government-issued standard form for rent increase notices, landlords are legally required to provide written notice. Here are essential forms relevant to rent changes or disputes:

• Notice to Quit – Demand for Possession (Form DC 100c)
  Official Form DC 100c
  When it’s used: This form is used by landlords to begin eviction proceedings if a tenant does not pay the new rent after a legal increase or due for other valid reasons. Example: If your landlord raised rent, provided 30 days’ notice, and you didn’t pay the new amount, they may serve this form to demand payment or possession.
• Complaint to Recover Possession of Property (Form DC 102c)
  Official Form DC 102c
  When it’s used: If an eviction moves forward due to nonpayment or other issues, the landlord files this complaint at your local district court. Renters can respond with defenses against unlawful rent increases or other claims.

If you believe your rent increase is a form of retaliation or discrimination, document all communications and seek guidance from a legal aid organization before taking any action.

What Government Agency Handles Tenant and Landlord Disputes in Michigan?

Michigan does not have a dedicated statewide landlord-tenant tribunal. Instead, disputes related to rent increases, evictions, or rental agreements are handled by the Michigan District Courts. Each local court processes housing and landlord-tenant cases. Official information about tenants’ rights can be found through the Michigan Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.

Relevant Tenancy Legislation

The key laws governing rental relationships in Michigan are:

• Michigan Truth in Renting Act (Public Act 348 of 1972)
• Michigan Landlord and Tenant Relationships Act (Public Act 454 of 1978)
• Michigan Local Government Prohibition on Rent Control (Section 123.411)

These statutes outline your rights regarding rent, lease terms, notice, and other protections.

FAQ: Rent Control, Rent Increases, and Tenant Rights in Michigan

1. Is there any rent control in Michigan?
   No, Michigan does not have any state or local rent control laws. Landlords can generally set and increase rent as they choose, subject to lease terms and proper notice.
2. How much notice must a landlord give before raising rent?
   For month-to-month tenancies, landlords must give written notice at least 30 days before a rent increase takes effect.
3. Can a landlord raise rent during a fixed-term lease?
   No. Landlords must wait until the lease ends or unless your lease allows mid-term increases.
4. Where can I file a complaint if I think my rent increase is unlawful?
   Disputes must be handled in your local Michigan District Court. You may also contact the Michigan Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division for information.
5. Are there protections against retaliatory rent increases?
   Yes. Michigan law prohibits landlords from increasing rent as retaliation for asserting your legal rights (such as reporting repairs).

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Michigan Renters

• Michigan law does not allow for rent control or rent stabilization anywhere in the state.
• Landlords must provide proper notice for any rent increase, and retaliation is illegal.
• Housing disputes are handled by Michigan District Courts, and several official resources are available to renters.

Remember to check your written lease and save all communication when facing a rent increase.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Michigan

• Michigan Attorney General – Landlord & Tenant Resources
• Find Your Local Michigan District Court (for filing rental disputes)
• Michigan Legal Help – Housing Help for Tenants

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1. See Michigan Compiled Laws Section 123.411 (Prohibition of Rent Control by Local Governments).
2. Michigan Landlord and Tenant Relationships Act (Public Act 454 of 1978).
3. Michigan District Courts handle landlord-tenant disputes.

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