Understanding Cure or Quit Notices for Michigan Renters

If you’re renting a home or apartment in Michigan and have received a notice about a lease violation, it’s important to understand your rights and next steps. One of the most common eviction notices is a “Cure or Quit Notice”—but what does that actually mean for Michigan renters?

What Is a Cure or Quit Notice in Michigan?

A Cure or Quit Notice is a written warning from your landlord that you’ve violated part of your lease agreement. In Michigan, this could involve unpaid rent, unauthorized pets, property damage, or other breaches of your rental contract. The notice gives you a specific amount of time to fix (“cure”) the problem or, if you don’t, your landlord can begin eviction proceedings (“quit” means you must move out).

• For most lease violations (like noise complaints or unauthorized occupants), you typically have 7 days to correct the issue.
• For nonpayment of rent, Michigan law also requires a 7-day notice.

Michigan landlords must use an official form to deliver these notices—protecting both landlords and tenants by ensuring clear, standardized communication.

Official Cure or Quit Notice Forms in Michigan

The main document used for lease violations (including both rent and non-rent issues) is the Demand for Possession – Nonpayment of Rent (DC 100a) or Demand for Possession – Noncompliance with Lease (DC 100b).

• DC 100a: Demand for Possession – Nonpayment of Rent
  Used if you owe rent. Example: If you’ve missed your monthly payment, your landlord provides this notice. You then have 7 days to pay before further action.
• DC 100b: Demand for Possession – Noncompliance with Lease
  Used for other lease violations, such as property damage, illegal activity, or unauthorized occupants. Example: If you have a pet in a no-pet building, your landlord may serve this form, and you have 7 days to remedy the situation or vacate.

These official forms and more details are available from the Michigan Courts Landlord-Tenant Forms page.

How Long Do You Have to Respond?

After receiving a Cure or Quit Notice (DC 100a or DC 100b), you usually have 7 days to resolve the problem:

• Pay the rent (if applicable)
• Correct the lease violation (such as removing a pet or repairing damage)
• Move out of the property

If you cure the violation in the time allowed, your landlord can’t move forward with eviction. But if you don’t act, your landlord may then file an eviction claim in court.

What Happens If You Don’t Cure the Issue?

If the issue isn’t fixed by the deadline, the landlord can file a complaint with the Michigan District Court's Landlord-Tenant Division. This starts the formal eviction process—often called a "Summary Proceeding." You’ll receive a court notice and have a chance to present your side.

Steps to Take if You Receive a Cure or Quit Notice

If you receive one of these notices, take these action steps:

• Read the notice carefully and identify the specific violation or rent owed.
• Check the form number—for most cases, it will be DC 100a or DC 100b.
• Decide if you can resolve the issue promptly (pay, repair, remove, or move out).
• Contact your landlord in writing to confirm how you will fix the problem—and keep copies.
• Seek assistance if you believe the notice is unfair or incorrect (see resources below).

Which Law and Tribunal Covers Michigan Renters?

Your rights and obligations are covered under the Michigan Truth in Renting Act and MCL 600.5714–600.5756 (Summary Proceedings to Recover Possession of Premises). All formal eviction claims are handled by the Michigan District Court - Landlord-Tenant Division.
The court provides guides and forms for all parties involved.

FAQ: Michigan Cure or Quit Notices

1. What is the difference between a Cure or Quit Notice and an Eviction Notice?
   A Cure or Quit Notice gives you a chance to fix a lease violation before an eviction is filed. An eviction notice from the court means the official legal process has begun.
2. Can my landlord evict me immediately after issuing a Cure or Quit Notice?
   No. Your landlord must give you the full notice period (usually 7 days) to fix the problem before filing in court.
3. What happens if I disagree with the violation?
   If you believe the notice is unfair, collect any evidence and consider reaching out to legal aid or the court for guidance. You can present your defense if eviction proceedings begin.
4. Can a landlord serve a Cure or Quit Notice for reasons not covered in the lease?
   Generally, the violation must be something prohibited by your lease or Michigan law. Check your lease terms and the specific conduct described in the notice.

Key Takeaways for Michigan Tenants

• Cure or Quit Notices give you 7 days to fix most lease violations or pay overdue rent in Michigan.
• Landlords must use official forms (DC 100a or DC 100b) to serve these notices.
• Act quickly: solve the problem, communicate in writing, and keep copies of everything.
• Seek help if you think the notice is unfair or need legal guidance.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Michigan District Court – Landlord-Tenant Division (for process details and forms)
• Michigan State Housing Development Authority (renter support and housing programs)
• Michigan Legal Help: Eviction & Housing Issues (free legal information and triage tools)
• Michigan Attorney General: Tenant Rights and Resources

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1. Michigan Compiled Laws 600.5714–5756 – Summary Proceedings for Possession
2. Michigan Truth in Renting Act
3. Michigan Courts: Landlord-Tenant Forms
4. Michigan District Court: Landlord-Tenant Division

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