What Happens When Rent Control Ends in Michigan?

If you're renting in Michigan, you may wonder what happens if your rent-controlled unit is converted to a market-rate apartment. Understanding the process, your rights, and steps to take can help you respond to rent increases and housing changes confidently under Michigan law.

Are There Rent-Controlled Apartments in Michigan?

Currently, Michigan does not allow local governments to impose rent control or rent stabilization laws. Since 1988, state law bans cities from enacting their own rent control ordinances. This means almost all apartments in Michigan are market-rate, except for a limited number of federally subsidized housing units where rents are restricted by government programs.

For renters, this means landlords can generally raise rent once your lease expires, unless your apartment is part of a federal or state housing subsidy program (like LIHTC or Section 8).

Transitioning from Subsidized or Controlled Rent to Market Rent

If your unit was part of a government rent-restricted program (such as Section 8, LIHTC, or public housing) and is moving to market rent, certain rules and protections may apply during and after the transition. Landlords must follow both Michigan’s Truth in Renting Act and federal guidelines regarding rent increases and notices.

Notices and Lease Changes: What Are Your Rights?

• If you are ending a subsidized lease, your landlord must give you proper written notice before any rent increase or change to the terms.
• Rent increases can only take effect after your current lease ends or is renewed, not during an active fixed-term lease, unless the lease states otherwise.
• For most market-rate leases, landlords must provide at least one full rental period’s written notice (typically 30 days for month-to-month leases) before increasing rent.

Required Official Forms

• Notice to Quit (Form DC 100c): Used when a landlord wishes to end a lease and remove a tenant. This form must be served properly to begin eviction proceedings if you do not accept a new lease or market rent.
  Example: A landlord serves a Notice to Quit if a tenant declines to sign a market-rate lease after subsidies end. Official Source: Michigan Courts - Notice to Quit
• Complaint to Recover Possession of Property (Form DC 102c): If you do not leave after receiving a Notice to Quit, the landlord may file this court form for eviction. Official Source: Michigan Courts - Complaint Form

Both forms are essential if the transition involves ending a tenancy. Always check your written lease for additional notice requirements.

How Landlords Must Notify Tenants of Market Rent Changes

Landlords must notify you in writing of any changes in lease terms, including rent adjustments, in compliance with the Truth in Renting Act.^[1] For tenants moving from rent-restricted to market rent, this may mean:

• Receiving a notice of non-renewal or revised lease agreement when the subsidy ends
• Being offered a market-rate lease, typically starting after the existing contract period ends
• For Section 8 or LIHTC, receiving special notices required by program rules

If you have questions or believe a notice was improper, you can contact the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) for guidance or initiate a complaint.

Where Are Renter Disputes Heard in Michigan?

Eviction and tenancy disputes in Michigan are handled by the Michigan District Courts. This is where landlords must file paperwork like complaints for possession if you do not agree to market rent terms or vacate after proper notice.^[2]

Action Steps If Your Rent-Controlled Status Ends

• Review all written notices and your current lease
• Ask if any tenant relocation assistance or protections apply (may be available in certain subsidized housing situations)
• Contact the landlord in writing if you have questions or need more time
• Seek help from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority or local legal aid

If you receive a Notice to Quit or court complaint, respond promptly to avoid the risk of eviction.

FAQ: Michigan Renters and Market Rent

1. Can my landlord raise the rent as much as they want in Michigan?
   In most cases, yes—Michigan law does not limit rent increases for market-rate units, except where subsidized or public programs apply.
2. What notice must my landlord give before raising my rent?
   Typically, the landlord must provide written notice at least one full rental period in advance (usually 30 days for month-to-month leases).
3. Do tenants have rights during the transition from subsidized to market rent?
   Yes, tenants have a right to advance notice, to review lease changes, and to receive court procedure if eviction is attempted.
4. Where can I appeal a rent increase or file a housing complaint?
   File complaints with the Michigan State Housing Development Authority or consult your local district court for eviction and lease disputes.
5. What official forms are used if my tenancy is being ended?
   Michigan landlords use the Notice to Quit (DC 100c) and, if necessary, the Complaint to Recover Possession of Property (DC 102c).

Key Takeaways for Michigan Renters

• Michigan law does not allow new rent control; most rents can rise annually unless your lease or subsidy says otherwise.
• Written notice is required before raising rent or making major lease changes.
• If your rent-restricted housing moves to market rent, you have notice and process rights; always seek help if you’re unsure.

Staying informed and acting quickly if you receive official notices helps protect your rights as a renter.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) – Housing information, complaints, and resources
• Michigan Legal Help – Free legal information and self-help tools for renters
• Michigan District Courts – To look up your local court for tenancy disputes

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1. Michigan Truth in Renting Act, MCL 554.631 et seq.
2. MSHDA - Rights and Duties of Tenants and Landlords

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