Michigan Renters: What To Do If You’re Locked Out

If you’re a renter in Michigan and suddenly find yourself locked out of your home—whether intentionally by your landlord or by accident—it can be a distressing experience. Understanding your rights and the steps to take can help you regain access quickly and protect your rental rights under Michigan law.

Your Rights If Locked Out In Michigan

In Michigan, it is illegal for a landlord to deliberately lock you out of your rental without following formal legal eviction proceedings. This kind of action, known as a "self-help" eviction, is strictly prohibited under the Michigan Compiled Laws Section 600.2918—also referred to as the "Anti-Lockout Law."

What Landlords Cannot Do

• Change the locks without a court order
• Remove your belongings from the property
• Shut off essential utilities to force you out

If your landlord locks you out without a court-ordered eviction, you're protected, and you may even have a right to damages if you have suffered a loss as a result.

When Lockouts Might Be Legal

The only legal way for a landlord to remove a tenant from a rental unit is by getting an official eviction order from a local district court. Even after such an order, only a court officer (not your landlord) can change locks or physically remove you.

Immediate Steps to Take If Locked Out

If you’re locked out, it’s important not to panic. Here’s what to do next:

• Determine whether the lockout was accidental (lost keys, broken lock) or intentional (landlord action).
• Contact your landlord for immediate access. If they refuse or don’t respond, document your communication.
• Record details—time, photos (if possible), and any notices you received.
• Do not attempt to break in, as this could lead to legal trouble.

What If Your Landlord Won’t Let You In?

If your landlord refuses to let you back in:

• Call the local police (non-emergency line) and explain the situation. Provide proof that you live there (ID, lease agreement, utility bill).
• If police cannot resolve the issue, consider contacting your local district court or seeking legal help.
• You may be entitled to sue your landlord for damages. Under Michigan law, tenants can recover actual damages or up to three times the amount of their actual damages, plus attorney fees, if a landlord violates the law.

Tip: Keep copies of your lease, rent receipts, and any communication with your landlord. These can be crucial if you need to assert your rights.

Relevant Forms for Lockout Situations

• Motion for Order to Show Cause (DC 102): If you're locked out and need to request emergency relief from the court, this is the primary form. You can use it to ask the court to order your landlord to restore access.
  Download Motion for Order to Show Cause (DC 102)
  Example: You return home to find your locks changed. Use this form to request an emergency hearing and order for immediate access.

File this form with your local district court, which handles landlord-tenant disputes. Find your court via the Michigan Court Directory.

Which Tribunal Handles Lockout Disputes?

In Michigan, the District Court is responsible for all landlord-tenant disputes, including unlawful lockouts. If you need to file a complaint or request emergency relief, this is where to go.

Michigan Anti-Lockout Legislation

Your primary protection is under Michigan Compiled Laws Section 600.2918 (Summary Proceedings to Recover Possession).¹

FAQ: Michigan Lockout Laws & Renter Rights

1. Can my landlord lock me out if I’m behind on rent?
   No, Michigan law does not allow landlords to change the locks or remove you from the property without a court order, regardless of overdue rent.
2. What should I do first if I discover I’m locked out?
   Try contacting your landlord for access. If you suspect an illegal lockout and can't reach them, contact the police and document the situation.
3. Are there emergency forms I can file as a tenant?
   Yes, you can file a Motion for Order to Show Cause (DC 102) with your local district court to seek emergency access and enforcement of your rights.
4. What if my landlord changes the locks after an eviction?
   Only a court officer can change the locks after a court-ordered eviction. If this wasn’t done by a court officer, you may have legal recourse.
5. Can I reclaim my belongings if I’m locked out?
   Yes. Your landlord cannot keep your personal property or refuse short-term access, even if an eviction process is pending.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Landlords in Michigan cannot lawfully lock out tenants without a court order.
• File a Motion for Order to Show Cause (DC 102) if emergency relief is needed.
• The District Court handles lockout disputes and tenant protections statewide.

Staying informed and gathering documentation boosts your ability to protect your rights and act quickly if faced with a lockout.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Michigan District Court: Landlord-Tenant Section — file lockout forms, get court help
• Michigan Attorney General Landlord & Tenant Resource
• Michigan Legal Help: Housing Problems — guidance for renters
• Michigan Court Directory — locate your local district court

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1. Michigan Compiled Laws Section 600.2918 – Summary Proceedings to Recover Possession

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