Michigan Renters’ Rights in Hotels and Motels

If you’re staying in a hotel or motel long-term in Michigan, you may wonder what legal rights you have. Unlike traditional apartments, hotel and motel tenancy rules in Michigan can be confusing. Knowing your protections and which laws apply can help you avoid sudden eviction and assert your rights if issues arise.

When Does a Hotel or Motel Guest Become a Tenant in Michigan?

Your rights vary depending on how long you have stayed and whether the hotel or motel is your primary residence. According to Michigan law, if you have stayed in the same hotel or motel for more than 30 days and you use the room as your main home, you may have similar rights as a tenant in a regular rental unit. This means you cannot usually be forced out without due process, such as written notice and, in some cases, a court order.

• Staying fewer than 30 days: you are usually considered a guest, not a tenant. Management can typically ask you to leave and remove you for any reason.
• Staying 30 days or more and using the unit as your only home: you may have additional legal protections under Michigan’s landlord-tenant laws.

It's important to clarify your status with hotel or motel management, keep records of payments, and use the property as your primary home if you seek protections under Michigan’s rental laws.

Eviction Rules for Hotel and Motel Residents

Once you qualify as a tenant (after 30 days with residency), hotel or motel owners must generally follow the legal eviction process used for other rentals. This involves proper notice and, if necessary, eviction proceedings in court before removal.

• Notice Required: For non-payment of rent, a 7-Day Notice to Quit must be served (DC 100a: Demand for Possession - Nonpayment of Rent).
• Filing in Court: If you don't move out or pay, management must file for eviction with the local district court.
• No Lockouts Without Court Order: It is illegal for hotel or motel staff to remove you or your belongings without a court order once you are considered a tenant.

If you are unsure about your legal status, consider contacting the Michigan Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Housing Resources for guidance.

Official Michigan Forms for Hotel & Motel Tenancy Matters

• DC 100a: Demand for Possession – Nonpayment of Rent
  View and download from Michigan Courts.
  Example: If you have not paid your rent on time after 30 days, the hotel/motel may serve you this form. You can respond by paying rent or moving out before further legal action.
• DC 102c: Complaint to Recover Possession of Property
  View official form from Michigan Courts.
  Example: If you disagree with the notice or believe your rights are being violated, you may see this form filed in court. You will be notified of a hearing date where you can present your side.

All official forms for landlord-tenant issues, including those relevant to hotel and motel stays, can be found through the Michigan Courts Landlord–Tenant Forms page.

Where to Go: Michigan’s Tribunal for Tenancy Disputes

Hotel and motel tenancy disputes in Michigan are usually handled in your local District Court. The District Court is responsible for all landlord-tenant matters, including eviction cases for long-term hotel and motel residents.

Which Law Protects Me?

Michigan’s Truth in Renting Act and selected sections of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961 – Landlord & Tenant apply to hotel and motel residents who meet the threshold for tenancies.

If you have stayed fewer than 30 days, protections under landlord-tenant law may not apply, meaning you can legally be asked to leave right away.

Practical Steps if Facing Eviction from a Michigan Hotel or Motel

• Check the length of your stay – keep proof (receipts, mail, etc.).
• If you receive a written notice (like DC 100a), respond quickly—know your move-out deadline.
• If you believe your rights are being violated, gather documentation and prepare for a hearing in District Court.
• If a lockout or removal occurs without a court order and you qualify as a tenant, consider contacting local authorities or legal aid.

Frequently Asked Questions: Hotel and Motel Tenancy in Michigan

1. When do I become a tenant at a Michigan hotel or motel?
   Generally, after 30 days of continuous stay and using the room as your primary residence, you gain most tenant rights.
2. Can a Michigan hotel or motel evict me without notice?
   If you’re a guest (under 30 days), yes. If you’re considered a tenant, the owner must serve you proper notice and get a court order.
3. What forms should I expect if I’m being evicted?
   The first is usually the DC 100a: Demand for Possession – Nonpayment of Rent. If unresolved, a DC 102c: Complaint to Recover Possession of Property may follow in court.
4. Can hotel/motel staff remove my belongings?
   If you are legally a tenant (over 30-day rule), staff cannot remove your items without following the court eviction process.
5. Where can I get legal help about hotel or motel tenancy in Michigan?
   Contact District Court or the Michigan Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division for guidance and resources.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Michigan Hotel/Motel Renters

• Your legal status as a renter depends mainly on how long and how you use your hotel or motel room.
• Stays over 30 days as a primary residence may qualify you as a tenant, providing greater legal protection.
• Stay informed, keep records, and use official Michigan forms and courts to protect your rights if facing an eviction or dispute.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Michigan District Courts – Landlord/Tenant Division
• Michigan Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Information and Complaints
• Michigan Legal Help – Housing Resources
• Official Michigan Landlord-Tenant Court Forms

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1. Michigan Attorney General – Housing/Consumer Protection
2. Michigan Truth in Renting Act
3. Revised Judicature Act of 1961 – Landlord & Tenant Provisions
4. Michigan Landlord-Tenant Court Forms
5. Michigan Legal Help – Housing Section

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