Michigan Lease Agreement Requirements: What to Include

Understanding what needs to appear in a Michigan lease agreement can help renters avoid confusion, protect their rights, and ensure a smoother rental experience. Whether you are starting a lease or renewing, knowing the required terms and documents is essential under Michigan law.

Key Elements Required in Michigan Lease Agreements

In Michigan, a residential lease agreement must include certain details to comply with state law. Without these, a lease might not fully protect your rights as a renter.

• Names and Addresses: Full legal names of all parties (tenant and landlord), along with their contact addresses.
• Property Description: The rental property’s full address and a clear description (such as apartment or unit number).
• Lease Term: The starting and ending date of the lease, or specify if it is month-to-month.
• Rent Amount and Payment Terms: Monthly rent, when it's due, and accepted payment methods.
• Security Deposit Terms: Including the amount, conditions for withholding, and the requirement to return it per Michigan’s Security Deposit Act.
• Utilities and Repairs: Clearly state which utilities the renter is responsible for, and who handles repairs or maintenance.
• Required Disclosures:
  • Landlord’s identity and address for legal notices
  • Notice about lead-based paint (for buildings built before 1978)
  • Move-in and move-out checklist requirements
  • Truth in Renting Act disclosures

Required Disclosures & Official Notices

Michigan law requires certain written notices/disclosures in every lease:

• Truth in Renting Act Disclosure: Every lease must include this statement: “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.” (See the Truth in Renting Act).
• Security Deposit Statement: Clarifies the terms for holding and returning deposits. See the Attorney General's security deposit guidance.
• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure: For buildings built before 1978, landlords must provide the official "Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home" pamphlet and a lead disclosure form. Get the official HUD Lead Disclosure information.
• Move-In Checklist (Form): Landlords must provide a move-in condition checklist. Renters should complete and return it within 7 days of moving in to document property condition. This is vital for security deposit disputes. Download the Move-In/Move-Out Checklist (no official form number).

Common Lease Additions (Not Always Required)

Leases often address rules on pets, smoking, subletting, guest policies, and entry notice requirements. These aren’t required by law but should be clear to protect both renters and landlords.

Official Forms You Should Know

• Move-In/Move-Out Checklist: No official number. Landlords must give this to new tenants. Complete it within 7 days of moving in to note the condition of the home and return a signed copy to your landlord. Download the checklist.
• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form: Required for older buildings. Find forms and details via the EPA's lead disclosure page.

For more on official forms, see the Michigan Attorney General’s Renter Rights page.

What If Something Is Missing or Unclear?

If your lease doesn’t include one of the above elements, or you’re unsure about your rights, you can contact the Michigan Department of Attorney General or review the Truth in Renting Act for clarity. Michigan’s residential rental concerns are generally handled in local District Courts (no state-wide landlord-tenant board).

FAQ: Michigan Lease Agreements and Your Rights

1. What is the maximum security deposit allowed in Michigan?
   Michigan law limits security deposits to 1.5 times the monthly rent.
2. Do I need to sign the move-in checklist?
   Yes, this checklist is important for documenting any existing damage. Never skip this step and always return a signed copy.
3. Can changes be made to a lease after it’s signed?
   Yes, but only if both the renter and landlord agree in writing. Any amendment should be signed and dated by both parties.
4. Is a verbal lease valid in Michigan?
   A verbal lease is allowed for periods under 1 year, but written agreements are strongly recommended to protect both parties.
5. Who do I contact for a dispute about my lease?
   Contact your local District Court for rental disputes, or the Michigan Attorney General for renter rights issues.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Michigan Renters

• Your lease should clearly state all basic terms: names, address, rent, security deposit, and who pays for utilities and repairs.
• Disclosures like the Truth in Renting Act and lead paint must be provided.
• Use and keep all required checklists and forms to protect your security deposit and rights.

Knowing your responsibilities — and what landlords must provide — helps avoid problems down the road.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Michigan Department of Attorney General – Consumer Protection: Phone (877) 765-8388
• Michigan Courts: Landlord-Tenant Dispute Self-Help Center
• Michigan Legislature – Acts and Bills (for up-to-date tenancy legislation)
• Michigan Department of Health and Human Services – Housing

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1. Michigan Truth in Renting Act, Public Act 454 of 1978
2. Michigan Security Deposit Act, Public Act 348 of 1972
3. Michigan Attorney General – Renter Rights
4. EPA Lead Paint Disclosure Rules

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