Michigan Short-Term Rental Laws: Airbnb and Tenant Rights

Are you considering listing your rental unit on Airbnb or another short-term rental platform in Michigan? Before you do, it's important to understand what state law says about subletting, landlord consent, and your rights as a tenant. This guide will help Michigan renters navigate the rules around short-term rentals, avoid common pitfalls, and point you toward official resources for further support.

Understanding Short-Term Rentals and Sublets in Michigan

In Michigan, a short-term rental typically means renting out your unit for fewer than 30 consecutive days, often through platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo. This is different from a traditional sublet, which might last much longer.

• Short-term rentals (including Airbnb): Renting your place for a few days or weeks to guests.
• Subletting: Renting your leased space to someone else (the subtenant) for a period, while you remain responsible to your own landlord.

What Does Michigan Law Say?

There is no single statewide law specifically about Airbnb or short-term rentals, but the Michigan Truth in Renting Act governs landlord and tenant relationships^[1]. Local city or township ordinances may also place limits on short-term rentals, including licensing or outright bans.

Key Points:

• Most lease agreements in Michigan prohibit subletting or require written landlord approval. Violating your lease terms could lead to eviction.
• Landlords may require renters to follow community rules and local laws. This applies whether you are subletting or listing your home as an Airbnb.
• Be aware that local government rules in cities like Detroit or Grand Rapids often add extra restrictions to short-term rentals.

Your Rights and Responsibilities as a Michigan Renter

If you are thinking about using your rental for Airbnb or a similar service, know your responsibilities:

• Check Your Lease: Does your lease contract mention subletting or guest rules? If it's prohibited, do not proceed without written consent from your landlord.
• Consult Local Ordinances: Cities and townships can create stricter short-term rental rules than the state.
• Stay Responsible: Even if you sublet, you (the original tenant) remain responsible for damages or rule violations by your guest.
• Rental Licensing: Some municipalities require registration or licensing for short-term rentals.

Required Forms and Legal Steps

Michigan does not have a universal statewide subletting form, but the following steps and forms are commonly involved:

• Permission to Sublet Notice (no official state form): Before subletting or Airbnb use, send your landlord a written request for permission. A simple letter often suffices. Example: "Dear [Landlord], I request written permission to sublet my unit at [address] for the period of [dates]."
• Lease Amendment or Assignment Agreement (no official state form): If your landlord approves, document any agreement to allow subletting. This can be in the form of a signed addendum to your lease.
• Michigan Attorney General's Landlord & Tenant Resources provide examples and more guidance.
• If the landlord believes you have violated your lease, they may use official forms such as the Demand for Possession – Nonpayment of Rent (DC 100a) if eviction is pursued. This is not specific to subletting, but can be used if subletting is a breach of lease.

What Happens if I Airbnb My Rental Without Permission?

If you sublet or Airbnb your place without proper consent, your landlord has legal grounds to begin the eviction process. This typically starts with a written notice describing the breach (lease violation). For a summary of landlord-tenant disputes or to find mediation services, Michigan renters can contact the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) or look to local district courts, which handle residential tenancy disputes.

Which Tribunal Handles Tenant Disputes?

Michigan's district courts hear landlord-tenant cases, including issues arising from illegal subletting or unapproved short-term rentals^[2]. Tenants and landlords may need to attend a court hearing if no agreement is reached.

Short-term rental rules are a mix of state law, local city/town ordinances, and your lease. Always review all three before making changes to your rental situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can Michigan renters legally use their apartment as an Airbnb? Most renters must have written landlord approval. Check your lease and city laws before listing.
2. What if my city bans short-term rentals? City or township laws take precedence. If a local ban exists, renters cannot legally sublet short-term, even if the landlord approves.
3. Is there an official Michigan subletting form? No statewide form exists. Written permission from the landlord and an addendum to your lease are recommended best practices.
4. What official board handles disputes about subletting? The Michigan district courts handle residential landlord-tenant disputes.
5. What happens if I Airbnb my rental without landlord or city permission? You risk eviction or legal action for breaking your lease or local laws.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Michigan Renters

• Always check your lease agreement and seek written landlord consent before subletting or listing for short-term rental.
• Research whether your city or township has rules or bans on short-term rentals.
• Official Michigan subletting rules are set by the Truth in Renting Act and enforced in local district courts.

Being informed can help you avoid common rental pitfalls and protect your rights as a Michigan renter.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) – Housing help and official program resources
• Michigan Attorney General: Landlord/Tenant Consumer Alerts – Legal guides and sample letters
• Michigan District Courts – Landlord-Tenant Division – File complaints or get court hearing info
• Michigan Legal Help – Housing Self-Help Tools

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1. Michigan Truth in Renting Act, official Michigan Legislature site
2. Michigan Courts, Landlord-Tenant Resources

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