Michigan Tenant Rights for Short-Term Vacation Rentals
Short-term vacation rentals, such as those arranged via Airbnb, VRBO, or similar platforms, are increasingly common in Michigan. As a renter, you may wonder what your rights and protections are if you are living in temporary accommodation. Understanding how Michigan law applies to these special housing situations is essential, especially if you are facing issues like security deposits, eviction, or sudden changes in your rental terms.
What Is Considered a Short-Term Vacation Rental in Michigan?
Michigan does not provide a statewide legal definition for "short-term vacation rental," but the term generally refers to leases or agreements for 30 days or less. These often fall under local regulations and sometimes sit outside traditional landlord-tenant laws. In cities and tourist destinations like Traverse City or Grand Rapids, local ordinances may impose specific rules, so it is important to check with the city’s housing or zoning office for details. Learn about state and local guidance for short-term rentals.
Are Short-Term Vacation Renters Protected Under Michigan Law?
Most short-term vacation rental arrangements are considered "licensee agreements" rather than traditional tenancies. However, in Michigan, the Truth in Renting Act and Landlord and Tenant Relationships Act offer certain protections to renters in Michigan.
- If the agreement lasts less than 30 days and you do not intend to live there as your primary residence, tenant-landlord law may not apply fully.
- If you are residing under a lease longer than 30 days, or paying month-to-month, these Acts do apply. Landlords must follow legal steps for eviction, notice, and the handling of your security deposit.
For specific city requirements, consult your community’s official housing or zoning website.
Key Rights as a Short-Term Renter
- Security Deposits: Michigan law limits security deposits to 1.5x monthly rent and requires landlords to return deposits within 30 days.
- Eviction: If the arrangement meets the definition of a tenancy, the landlord must use the appropriate legal process to evict you. Improper lockouts are unlawful.
- Maintenance: Landlords are responsible for keeping rental units habitable—even for short stays—if a landlord-tenant relationship exists.
- Notice: If your rental is changing status (e.g., being sold or converted), the landlord may owe you notice.
If you’re unsure of your status, seek advice from the Michigan Department of Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division or your local housing authority.
Common Michigan Forms for Short-Term Rental Tenants
As a renter, you may encounter standard residential forms. Here are the most common relevant to short-term situations:
- Security Deposit Receipt and Inventory Checklist (Inventory Checklist)
This form is required if you pay a security deposit, even for a short-term lease. Use it when moving in to document the unit's condition and help ensure you get your deposit back. - Notice to Quit (Form DC 100c) (DC 100c)
Used by landlords to serve notice before starting an eviction. If you receive this, you may have a chance to remedy the issue or move out before court proceedings begin.
All official Michigan eviction and tenancy forms are available from the Michigan Courts Landlord-Tenant Forms page.
Who Handles Tenant Disputes and Eviction in Michigan?
Residential housing disputes—including for many short-term rental disputes—are handled by the Michigan District Court. Your landlord must file an eviction action in court if trying to remove you from qualified rental housing. For most other complaints, you can also contact your local city housing department or the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division.
What Legislation Applies?
Key state laws protecting Michigan renters include:
- Truth in Renting Act
- Landlord and Tenant Relationships Act
- Local short-term rental ordinances set by city governments (availability varies by jurisdiction)
Be sure to review both state law and any local city or county requirements that may impose additional obligations or restrictions for vacation rentals.
FAQ: Michigan Short-Term Rental Tenant Rights
- Do Michigan landlord-tenant laws cover all short-term vacation rentals?
Not always. If your stay is under 30 days or clearly labeled as a "license" rather than a traditional lease, some state tenant protections may not apply. For month-to-month or longer leases, standard landlord-tenant law protections generally do apply. - How do I protect my security deposit in a short-term rental?
Always complete the Inventory Checklist at move-in and keep records of your payment. Ensure the landlord follows required deposit handling procedures. Find the checklist on the Attorney General website. - What should I do if I get an eviction notice for my short-term Michigan rental?
Review the notice promptly. If it is a Notice to Quit, you may have time to fix the issue or move. If you believe you have tenant protections, respond and consider seeking help from the Michigan District Court or local legal aid. - Can a landlord evict me without going to court in Michigan?
No, if your agreement is considered a lease (even short-term), a landlord must follow state legal procedures, serve you with proper notice, and obtain a court order for eviction. - Where can I find official forms and guidance for Michigan short-term rentals?
Official forms can be found on the Michigan Courts Landlord-Tenant Forms page and at the state's vacation rental hub.
Need Help? Resources for Renters
- Michigan District Court – handles residential landlord-tenant cases statewide.
- Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division – for questions or complaints about rental practices.
- Michigan Legal Help Housing Tools – self-help resources for renters.
- Contact your local municipality for city-specific rental rules.
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