Michigan Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act (MCL 37.2101 et seq.) prohibits housing discrimination and is enforced by the Michigan Department of Civil Rights (FHAP agency). The Truth in Renting Act (MCL 554.631) and various landlord-tenant statutes govern rental housing. Security deposits are capped at 1.5 months' rent and must be returned within 30 days. Month-to-month tenancies require 30 days' notice (one full rental period). Retaliatory eviction is prohibited; landlords may not evict tenants for reporting health/safety violations or exercising legal rights.
Security Deposit Limit
1.5 months' rent
Eviction Notice Minimum
30 days
Retaliation Presumption
Protected (no set period)
Rent Control
No statewide rent control
Mich. Comp. Laws §§ 37.2501-37.2507
Filing Agency
Michigan Department of Civil Rights (MDCR)
Filing Deadline
180 days from the discriminatory act (MDCR) or 3 years (direct court filing)
Missing a deadline can forfeit your legal claim. Know your windows.
| Law / Agency | Deadline | Filed With |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Fair Housing Act (HUD) | 300 days | HUD (via state FHAP agency) |
| Federal Fair Housing Act (Court) | 2 years | Federal or state court |
| MI ELCRA Housing | 180 days from the discriminatory act (MDCR) or 3 years (direct court filing) | Michigan Department of Civil Rights (MDCR) |
| MI PWDCRA Housing | 180 days from the discriminatory act (MDCR) or 3 years (direct court filing) | Michigan Department of Civil Rights (MDCR) |
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This page provides general legal information about Michigan tenant rights for educational purposes only. It is not legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is created. Laws change frequently; verify current statutes with your state agency or a qualified attorney. If you believe your rights have been violated, consult a licensed landlord-tenant attorney in Michigan.