Required Disclosures (6)
1. Domestic Violence – Tenants must be made aware that they have the right to terminate a lease if they experience domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. A lease agreement or a posted sign must contain the following language:
“A tenant who has a reasonable apprehension of present danger to him or her or his or her child from domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking may have special statutory rights to seek a release of rental obligation under MCL 554.601b.”
2. Inventory Checklist – A landlord must provide a tenant with an inventory checklist before move-in and upon move-out so the tenant can make note of damages or wear and tear. The tenant should also receive a copy of the checklist submitted by the prior tenant.[1]
3. Lead-Based Paint Disclosure & EPA Pamphlet – If a property was built before 1978, its landlord must disclose to the tenant that the walls and ceiling could contain lead-based paint.
4. Notices – A landlord must provide a tenant with an address to which legal notices can be sent.[2]
5. Truth in Renting Act – The lease must contain the following language:
“NOTICE: Michigan law establishes rights and obligations for parties to rental agreements. This agreement is required to comply with the Truth in Renting Act. If you have a question about the interpretation or legality of a provision of this agreement, you may want to seek assistance from a lawyer or other qualified person.”[3]
6. Security Deposit Receipt – A landlord must give a tenant a receipt for a security deposit containing the following language: “You must notify your landlord in writing within 4 days after you move of a forwarding address where you can be reached and where you will receive mail; otherwise your landlord shall be relieved of sending you an itemized list of damages and the penalties adherent to that failure.”[4]
Rent Payment Laws
Grace Period – None.
Maximum Late Fee – None.
NSF Fee – A landlord can charge a $25 penalty for a bad check.[7]