Michigan Landlord Move-In Disclosures: What Renters Must Know

Before you move into a new rental home in Michigan, your landlord is required to provide certain inspections, disclosures, and official forms. The goal is to make sure tenants are well-informed about the property’s condition, their rights, and vital safety information. Understanding these legal obligations can help protect you throughout your lease and make sure your new home is up to standard.

What Disclosures Must Michigan Landlords Provide Before Move-In?

Michigan law requires landlords to give renters specific written notices and disclosures before a lease starts. These disclosures are intended to make both parties aware of property conditions, tenant rights, and important contact information. Here’s what every Michigan renter should look out for:

• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (for properties built before 1978)
• Move-In Condition Checklist
• Name and Address of Owner or Agent
• Security Deposit Receipt and Information
• Truth in Renting Act Notice
• Domestic Violence Protections Notice

1. Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form

If your rental home was built before 1978, your landlord must give you the federal Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form and pamphlet. This warns renters about possible lead paint hazards.

• Form Name: Disclosure of Information on Lead-Based Paint and/or Lead-Based Paint Hazards
• When Used: Required before signing a lease for any pre-1978 property.
• Example: If you're renting a 1965 apartment, your landlord must give you this disclosure and a copy of the "Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home" pamphlet, and both parties must sign the disclosure.
• Download the Lead Disclosure Form (EPA)

2. Move-In Condition Checklist

Michigan requires landlords to provide a "Inventory Checklist" (also called a Move-In Condition Checklist) when you get the keys. This form allows you to note any existing damage or problems so you aren't wrongfully charged when you move out.

• Form Name: Inventory Checklist (no formal number, but form sample in MI AG "Tenants & Landlords" guide)
• When Used: Provided at move-in; you have 7 days to complete and return.
• Example: After moving in, document scratches, stains, or issues. Return the checklist to your landlord to protect your security deposit.
• Inventory Checklist Example and MI Attorney General Guide

3. Owner or Agent Information

Your landlord must provide you in writing with the name and address of the property owner or manager. This allows renters to know who to contact about repairs, emergencies, or legal matters.

• When Used: Must be disclosed before or at the start of tenancy.
• Example: Your lease or a separate notice will list the landlord’s (or management company’s) name and mailing address.

4. Security Deposit Receipt and Disclosure

Landlords charging a security deposit must provide:

• A written receipt showing the amount collected
• The name and address of the financial institution holding the deposit
• A notice informing you of your obligation to provide a forwarding address (within 4 days of moving out)

This information is usually included in your lease or as a separate document.

5. Truth in Renting Act Notice

Landlords must include a specific statement in all leases, letting tenants know certain illegal or unenforceable lease terms aren’t valid under Michigan law. This is a legal requirement under the Michigan Truth in Renting Act:

"Notice: Michigan law establishes rights and obligations for parties to rental agreements. This agreement is required to comply with the Truth in Renting Act. If you have a question about the interpretation or legality of a provision of this agreement, you may want to seek assistance from a lawyer or other qualified person."

6. Notice of Domestic Violence Protections

Michigan landlords must inform new tenants of rights related to domestic violence, including protections for early lease termination. This can be provided in the lease or as a separate written notice. For more details, see the official Michigan statute on domestic violence protections.

What Should Renters Do with These Disclosures?

When you receive any of these forms or notices, read them carefully and keep copies for your records. Use the Inventory Checklist to document the property’s condition right away. If something is missing or unclear, you have the right to ask your landlord or contact Michigan’s tenant support resources for help.

Michigan’s Rental Housing Authority and Legal Protections

In Michigan, there isn’t a single tribunal or board dedicated specifically to residential tenancies. However, tenant-landlord disputes are usually handled in the District Court – Landlord-Tenant Division. The main housing legislation for leases and disclosures is:

• Michigan Truth in Renting Act
• MCL 554.601b - Domestic Violence Protections
• EPA Lead Paint Disclosure Rules

If your landlord doesn’t provide the required disclosures or forms, you may have legal options through Michigan’s District Courts. Disputes about non-disclosure are usually addressed as part of tenant-landlord cases in District Court.

What Happens If a Landlord Fails to Provide Disclosures?

Failure to provide disclosures can result in penalties for the landlord, including the possible inability to keep your security deposit, and, in lead paint cases, federal fines. Tenants should:

• Document all communications
• Contact the landlord in writing about any missing forms
• If unresolved, consider seeking legal help or filing in District Court

Keeping proof of disclosures and compliance will protect you if there’s a dispute at move-out or later in your tenancy.

FAQ: Michigan Rental Disclosures Before Move-In

1. What happens if my Michigan landlord doesn't give me a move-in checklist?
   If your landlord doesn't provide the inventory checklist, they may have difficulty keeping your security deposit for damages at move-out, since state law requires this form.
2. Do all Michigan rentals need a lead paint disclosure?
   No, only rentals built before 1978 require this disclosure form and pamphlet to be given to new tenants.
3. How do I know where my security deposit is held?
   Michigan law requires landlords to tell you in writing the bank or institution where your deposit is kept. This should be given at move-in or stated in your lease.
4. Can I terminate my lease early for domestic violence in Michigan?
   Michigan law allows tenants experiencing domestic violence to terminate their lease with proper written notice and documentation. Contact your landlord in writing and review state law for details.
5. What is the Truth in Renting Act notice I see in my lease?
   This notice is required by state law and tells you that rental agreements must comply with Michigan law, protecting you from illegal lease terms.

Key Takeaways for Michigan Renters

• Michigan landlords must provide specific disclosures—such as lead-paint, inventory checklist, and Truth in Renting Act notices—before move-in.
• Always keep records of every form or notice you get. These documents protect your rights and your security deposit.
• If you don't receive required disclosures, ask your landlord in writing and seek help from Michigan's resources if needed.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Michigan Attorney General – Landlord/Tenant Resources and Forms
• Michigan District Court: Landlord-Tenant Cases
• Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA)
• EPA Lead Paint Disclosure Information

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1. Michigan Truth in Renting Act (MCL 554.631 et seq.)
2. Michigan Law on Domestic Violence Protections
3. EPA Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Requirements
4. Michigan District Court Landlord-Tenant Info
5. Tenants and Landlords – MI Attorney General Guide & Forms

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