Michigan Renters Insurance Rules: What New Tenants Must Know

Moving into a new rental in Michigan often comes with a lot of paperwork and questions. One common topic that can be confusing is whether renters insurance is required, either by law or by your lease. Understanding what Michigan law says about renters insurance and what your landlord can ask for will help you protect yourself and avoid surprises at move-in. This guide breaks down the essentials in plain language, including official forms and where to get help if you have questions or concerns.

Are Landlords Allowed to Require Renters Insurance in Michigan?

In Michigan, state law does not require renters to carry renters insurance. However, landlords are allowed to require renters insurance as a condition of the lease. If your lease includes a renters insurance requirement, you must comply, or risk losing your ability to sign or renew your rental agreement.

• Landlords can require proof of insurance before you move in.
• The lease cannot require you to purchase insurance from a specific company or agent.
• Insurance requirements must be clearly stated in your written lease agreement.

If you have questions about your lease or are unsure whether your landlord can enforce a specific requirement, always refer to the Michigan Truth in Renting Act and the Michigan Landlord and Tenant Relationships Act.^[1][2]

What Does Renters Insurance Cover?

Renters insurance is a policy you buy to protect your personal belongings from events like fire, theft, or water damage. It often includes:

• Personal property coverage: Pays to replace your belongings.
• Liability coverage: Protects you if someone is hurt in your rental.
• Additional living expenses: Helps cover costs if your home becomes temporarily uninhabitable due to a covered event.

Required Disclosures and Forms for Tenants

While there is no specific Michigan government form for renters insurance requirements, state law does require landlords to make important rental disclosures. Common move-in disclosures and forms include:

• Inventory Checklist (no official number): Given at move-in so you can document the condition of the unit. See example and instructions from the Michigan Attorney General.
• Security Deposit Receipt (if collected): Shows the amount collected and where the deposit is held.
• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (Federal Form EPA-747-K-99-001): Required for buildings built before 1978. Get the EPA-required lead disclosure form.

For example: If you move into a rental built before 1978, your landlord must provide the EPA Lead Disclosure form for your signature before the lease begins.

How Do You Show Proof of Insurance?

If your lease requires renters insurance, provide your landlord with your insurance certificate or declaration page. Most insurance companies can email you this proof within minutes. Keep a digital or paper copy for your own records. If you have trouble obtaining proof or your landlord rejects your documentation, reach out to the Michigan Attorney General Consumer Protection Division for guidance.

Who Handles Rental Disputes in Michigan?

Rental disputes in Michigan are handled through the local District Court for your area. However, many questions about lease requirements, including insurance, can be answered or mediated by government-supported resources like the Michigan Attorney General Consumer Protection Division or local legal aid offices.^[3]

Relevant Laws Covering Rental Insurance Requirements

• Michigan Truth in Renting Act: Covers what can and cannot be included in a residential lease.
• Michigan Landlord and Tenant Relationships Act: Governs most rental matters, including security deposits and disclosures.

FAQ: Michigan Renters Insurance and Your Rights

1. Is renters insurance legally required for tenants in Michigan?
   No, Michigan law does not require renters insurance, but your landlord can set this requirement in your lease agreement.
2. Can a landlord tell me where to buy renters insurance?
   No, you have the right to choose any licensed provider. Your landlord cannot mandate a specific company or agent.
3. What should I do if I can't afford renters insurance?
   Talk to your landlord about your situation. Seek help from local legal aid or the Consumer Protection Division if insurance is required but is a financial hardship.
4. What if my landlord refuses to give me my keys unless I show proof of insurance?
   If your signed lease requires insurance, they can ask for it. If not, contact the Attorney General Consumer Protection Division for help.
5. How do I document unit condition at move-in?
   Use the Inventory Checklist and take photos/videos. Note any issues and give a copy to your landlord within 7 days of moving in.

Conclusion: What Michigan Renters Should Remember

• Michigan law does NOT require renters insurance, but your lease might.
• All insurance requirements must be stated in writing and fairly applied.
• Official resources are available if you have concerns or disputes.

If you're unsure, review your lease and contact a state agency for support.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Michigan Attorney General Consumer Protection Division: Landlord & Tenant Resources
• Michigan District Courts Directory (for local landlord-tenant cases)
• Michigan Legal Help: Free guidance and forms for tenants
• USA.gov: Michigan Consumer Protection Offices

---

1. [1] Michigan Truth in Renting Act (Public Act 348 of 1972)
2. [2] Michigan Landlord and Tenant Relationships Act (Act 348 of 1972, sections 554.601 to 554.616)
3. [3] Michigan District Courts – Landlord-Tenant Division

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations