Michigan Move-In Checklist: Essential Inspections for Renters

Moving into a new rental in Michigan can be exciting, but it’s important for renters to protect themselves by thoroughly inspecting the unit and understanding state requirements before signing a lease. By following a detailed checklist and using required forms, you can catch maintenance issues, avoid disputes, and ensure your security deposit is safe under Michigan law.

Why Move-In Inspections Matter in Michigan

Michigan law requires landlords to provide specific disclosures and opportunities for renters to inspect the property and note its condition. This helps ensure that tenants aren’t held responsible for prior damage or unaddressed maintenance issues (Michigan Compiled Laws Section 554.608).

What to Inspect Before You Sign

Before you sign your lease, take the time to carefully inspect your new rental. Here’s what Michigan renters should focus on during their move-in walk-through:

General Interior and Rooms

• Walls, ceilings, and paint for stains, holes, or peeling
• Floors and carpets for wear, stains, or tears
• Doors and windows: Check locks, latches, and that they open/close properly
• Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors: Confirm presence and working order
• Light fixtures and electrical outlets

Kitchen and Appliances

• Refrigerator, stove/oven, dishwasher, and other appliances: Ensure they work and are clean
• Sinks, faucets, and plumbing for leaks or drips
• Cabinets and countertops for damage

Bathrooms

• Toilet, shower, tub, and sink operation
• Water pressure and drainage
• Signs of mold or water damage

Safety and Cleanliness

• Locks on all doors
• Exits and fire escapes are accessible
• Cleanliness of the unit upon move-in

Official Move-In Checklist and Forms in Michigan

Michigan law requires your landlord to provide you with two important move-in forms:

1. Inventory Checklist (Required Move-In/Move-Out Form)

• Form Name: Inventory Checklist (no specific form number, but an example is available from Michigan Department of Attorney General)
• This checklist is used to record the condition of your rental at move-in and again at move-out. Make sure both you and your landlord sign it, and you keep a copy.
• Renter Example: If you notice a stain on the carpet during your inspection, you would note it on the checklist to prevent being charged for it later.

2. Security Deposit Receipt and Required Notice

• Your landlord must provide a security deposit receipt and a written notice detailing:
• The name and address of the financial institution holding your deposit
• Your right to a written list of damages within 4 days of moving out
• For details on what to expect, see Michigan's official Landlord-Tenant Handbook.

Understanding Michigan's Key Disclosure Laws

Landlords in Michigan are legally required to make several disclosures before or when you move in. This not only includes the move-in condition checklist, but also information about:

• Who is authorized to manage the property
• Where legal notices should be sent
• Environmental or health hazards, like known lead-based paint for buildings built before 1978; see MDHHS lead disclosure guidance

Who Oversees Renter-Landlord Laws in Michigan?

In Michigan, residential tenancy disputes—including security deposit disagreements—are generally handled by the Michigan District Court – Landlord-Tenant Division. This is where you would file claims if there is a dispute over move-in or move-out issues.

What if I Find Problems After Moving In?

If you discover issues that were not listed on your inventory checklist or disclosed, promptly notify your landlord in writing. Always keep a copy for your records. If the problem is not resolved, you may be able to contact your local housing code enforcement agency or file a claim in the Michigan District Court.

Action Steps for a Worry-Free Move-In

Take the following steps before signing your Michigan lease to protect your interests:

• Ask for and review the official Inventory Checklist from your landlord
• Carefully inspect every part of your rental and note all damages or issues
• Take dated photos or video as extra evidence
• Keep copies of all signed documents—including your lease, disclosures, and checklists
• Review Michigan's Security Deposit Act for your rights regarding deposits and inspection requirements

Completing a thorough move-in inspection and understanding your rights can prevent most security deposit disputes when you move out.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is a move-in checklist required by law in Michigan?
   Yes. Michigan law requires landlords to provide new tenants with a move-in inventory checklist when the lease begins, so you can accurately record the apartment's condition.
2. What if my landlord doesn't give me the official checklist?
   If your landlord doesn’t provide the inventory checklist at move-in, request it in writing. Keeping your own detailed checklist and photos is wise for protection.
3. Can I be charged for damages that were there before I moved in?
   No, not if the damages were properly noted on your move-in checklist and communicated to your landlord.
4. What should I do if something is missing or broken after I move in?
   Write to your landlord about the issue as soon as possible, and keep a copy of your message. If it is not addressed, you may report it to local housing authorities or the District Court.
5. Where can I download the Michigan rental inventory checklist?
   You can download the official sample checklist from the Michigan Attorney General website.

Key Takeaways for Michigan Renters

• Michigan law requires a move-in inventory checklist to protect you and your deposit
• Carefully inspect your unit and note all issues before signing any lease
• Keep all documentation and know your resources in case of disputes

Need Help? Resources for Michigan Renters

• Michigan Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Guide
• Michigan Legal Help: Move-In Checklist for Tenants
• Michigan District Court: Landlord-Tenant Division
• For complaints or more guidance, contact your local city or county housing office

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1. Michigan Security Deposit Act, Act 348 of 1972
2. Michigan Compiled Laws Section 554.608 (Disclosures and Inventory Checklist)
3. Michigan District Court – Landlord-Tenant Division

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