Michigan Tenant Move-Out Walk-Through: Complete Checklist & Forms

Preparing to move out of your Michigan rental? Knowing your rights and responsibilities during the final walk-through can help safeguard your security deposit and ensure a smooth transition. This checklist and guide will walk you through essential steps, official forms, and key laws every Michigan renter should know.

Understanding the Final Walk-Through in Michigan

A final walk-through is a joint inspection, usually done at the end of your lease, to review your rental's condition before you return the keys. It allows both tenant and landlord to agree on any needed repairs, cleaning, or potential deductions from the security deposit.

Michigan law does not require a formal walk-through, but following a checklist and using official forms protects your deposit and helps avoid disputes.^[1]

Essential Steps for Your Move-Out Process

Staying organized as you end your tenancy helps ensure you get your full deposit back. Always keep written documentation of the unit's condition and your communications with your landlord.

1. Notify Your Landlord in Writing

• Michigan law requires written notice when you plan to move out. Consult your lease to check timing—often, 30 days are required.
• Send the notice by certified mail and keep a copy.

2. Review and Complete the Inventory Checklist (Form)

• Form Name: Inventory Checklist
• When Used: Provided by your landlord when you move in, this checklist records the condition of each room and appliance. At move-out, compare the current condition to your original copy.
• Where to Find: The landlord is required by law to provide this form at move-in. Example and details are available from the Michigan Attorney General's Landlord/Tenant Guide.
• How to Use: Bring your completed move-in checklist and walk through each room. Note any damage or changes. If the landlord did not provide this at move-in, you can still document the state with photos and written notes.

3. Clean and Repair

• Thoroughly clean the unit and remove all personal belongings.
• Complete minor repairs (like patching nail holes) unless your lease states otherwise.
• Take timestamped photos or videos for your records.

4. Schedule and Attend the Walk-Through

• Request a mutually convenient time for a final inspection.
• Bring your original Inventory Checklist, keys, and cleaning receipts.
• Discuss any concerns in person and ask for a written list of deductions, if any.

5. Provide a Forwarding Address (Required Form)

• Form Name: Security Deposit Forwarding Address Notice
• When Used: Michigan law requires tenants to give their landlord a forwarding address in writing within 4 days of moving out, so the landlord can return the security deposit or provide notice of any deductions.
• How to Use: After you move, send your new address to the landlord by mail or deliver in person. Keep a copy for your records. A sample letter is provided by the Michigan Attorney General's guide to Security Deposits.

Common Move-Out Issues and Dispute Resolution

If you disagree with deductions or do not receive your deposit back, contact your landlord in writing. Michigan law allows tenants to sue in Small Claims Court if disputes cannot be resolved. The Michigan District Court Small Claims division handles these cases.^[2]

The Official Tribunal for Rental Disputes in Michigan

In Michigan, rental disputes—including security deposit issues—are handled through the Michigan Courts. Most landlord-tenant matters are processed in the District Court closest to your rental property.

Michigan’s Landlord-Tenant Laws to Know

The key law governing Michigan rentals is the Michigan Landlord and Tenant Relationships Act (Public Act 348 of 1972). This law covers security deposits, required notices, and your rights during move-out.

FAQ: Michigan Tenant Move-Out Walk-Throughs

1. Do I have a right to be present during the final walk-through?
   Michigan law does not require landlords to invite tenants, but you can and should request to be present during the inspection.
2. What if my landlord didn’t give me an inventory checklist at move-in?
   Michigan landlords are required to provide this checklist. If they did not, document your move-out with photos and notes and still request your full deposit back.
3. How long does my landlord have to return my security deposit?
   After you move out and provide your forwarding address, your landlord has 30 days to return your deposit or give a list of deductions.
4. What can the landlord deduct from my security deposit?
   They may deduct for unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear and tear, or unpaid utility bills. Damage must be documented with an itemized list.
5. What if my landlord withholds my deposit unfairly?
   File a written complaint and, if needed, take your case to District Court’s Small Claims division.

Key Takeaways for Michigan Renters

• Always use a move-in inventory checklist and compare it at move-out.
• Submit your forwarding address within 4 days and keep all documentation.
• If there are disputes, Michigan District Court Small Claims division can help resolve them.

Following these steps can increase your chances of a quick and full deposit return.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Michigan Attorney General – Landlord/Tenant Guide
• Michigan Legislature – Full Text of the Landlord and Tenant Relationships Act
• Michigan District Court – Small Claims Instructions
• Michigan Legal Help – Housing Information and Forms

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1. See Michigan Landlord and Tenant Relationships Act (PA 348 of 1972)
2. Michigan District Court Small Claims: Official Small Claims Guide

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