When Can Michigan Landlords Raise Rent for Pass-Through Costs?

If you rent in Michigan, understanding when your landlord can raise your rent—especially for extra costs passed on to you—is essential. While Michigan does not have state-wide rent control or rent stabilization, certain landlord costs, called "pass-through costs," can sometimes be added to your rent. This article breaks down when these increases are allowed, your rights, and what steps you can take if you receive a notice.

Understanding Pass-Through Costs in Michigan

"Pass-through costs" are additional expenses landlords may try to charge tenants on top of base rent. Typical examples include property taxes, increased insurance, or utilities if the lease allows. In Michigan, whether your landlord can pass these costs onto you depends mainly on your lease agreement, as there is no state law specifically prohibiting or allowing these charges by default.^[1]

Can Landlords Legally Raise Rent for Pass-Through Costs?

Michigan law gives landlords significant flexibility to raise rent, provided:

• The increase is not during a fixed-term lease (unless the lease terms allow for increases).
• You are given the proper written notice (at least one rent period in advance, such as 30 days for a month-to-month lease).
• The lease specifically permits charging or passing along certain costs (e.g., water, taxes, or maintenance fees).

If your lease is silent on pass-through costs or says rent is "all-inclusive," landlords cannot unilaterally add extra fees during the lease. However, after the lease expires or for month-to-month tenants, rent (including additional costs) can be raised following proper notice.

Required Notice for Rent Increases in Michigan

Michigan law requires landlords to give tenants at least one full rental period of notice (typically 30 days) before a rent increase can take effect. The notice must:

• Be in writing
• State the amount of the new rent
• Specify when the increase will begin

You can review these requirements in the Michigan Compiled Laws – Section 554.134.^[2]

What Official Forms Are Used for Rent Increases?

While Michigan does not have one universal "rent increase notice" form, landlords commonly use a 30-Day Notice of Rent Increase. There is no statewide official form number. Landlords should provide this notice in writing, either by hand delivery or mail.

• Form: 30-Day Notice of Rent Increase (no official form number)
• When to use: Month-to-month or after a fixed-term lease ends, to notify you of new rent (including extra pass-through costs, if the lease allows).
• Example: If your landlord wants to increase your rent by $50 starting next month to cover higher property taxes (and your lease permits it), you must receive a written 30-day notice.
• Where to find: Templates and guidance are available on the Michigan Attorney General's Landlord-Tenant webpage.

Your Rights if You Receive a Rent Increase for Pass-Through Costs

If you receive notice of a rent increase in Michigan:

• Review your lease. Is there a clause permitting these specific pass-through charges?
• Check the notice for proper timing and written confirmation.
• If unsure or if you feel the increase violates your lease or was not properly communicated, contact the Michigan Attorney General's Landlord-Tenant Division.
• Michigan law does not limit the amount a landlord may increase your rent or add pass-through costs, unless local ordinances or the lease say otherwise.

Official Tribunal for Michigan Residential Tenancies

Disagreements about rent increases—including those for pass-through costs—are generally handled in Michigan district courts, which oversee landlord-tenant matters. For more information, see the official Michigan Court System for District/Trial Courts.^[3]

FAQ: Michigan Rent Increases and Pass-Through Costs

1. Can my landlord add pass-through costs to my rent in Michigan?
   Only if your lease permits it or after the lease has ended and following proper written notice.
2. What if the notice period given for a rent increase is too short?
   If you are not given at least one full rental period’s notice, you may dispute the increase or refuse to pay until proper notice is provided.
3. Are there any statewide limits on how much rent can be increased in Michigan?
   No, Michigan does not have statewide rent control, so landlords may raise rent by any amount unless otherwise limited by your lease or local city rule.
4. Where can I get help if I think a rent increase or fee is unfair?
   Contact the Michigan Attorney General Landlord-Tenant Division or seek legal aid advice.
5. What happens if I can’t afford a new rent increase?
   You can negotiate with your landlord or consider ending your tenancy if you are on a month-to-month agreement. If you remain but do not pay, the landlord can begin eviction for non-payment after required notices.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Michigan Attorney General – Landlord-Tenant Division: Guides on rent increases, sample forms, and complaint process.
• Michigan Courts – Find Your District Court: File disputes or get information on landlord-tenant proceedings in your area.
• Michigan Legal Help: Free guides and tools for renters facing lease or rent issues.

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1. See the Michigan Compiled Laws on Lease Termination and Rent Changes, Section 554.134.
2. Read Michigan’s laws on Notice Requirements to Quit.
3. Visit the official Michigan Courts site for more information on landlord-tenant hearings.

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