Lease Agreement requirements in Michigan
- Must be in writing if the lease term is for more than one year, per the Statute of Frauds.
- Include names of all tenants and the landlord, property address, and lease term (start and end dates).
- Specify rent amount, due date, late fees, and acceptable payment methods.
- Detail security deposit terms: maximum of 1.5 times monthly rent, and return within 30 days after move-out.
- Include any pet policies, rules on subletting, and maintenance responsibilities.
- Must adhere to Michigan's implied warranty of habitability and other landlord-tenant laws.
How to create a Lease Agreement in Michigan
- Review Michigan landlord-tenant laws (but don't rely solely on memory; check official sources).
- Use or create a template that covers all essential clauses: rent, deposit, occupancy, utilities, repairs, entry, and termination.
- Add state-specific disclosures, such as lead-based paint for pre-1978 properties, if applicable.
- Ensure all parties sign the agreement, and have it witnessed or notarized if desired (not required but recommended).
- Provide each party with a copy and retain the original for your records.
What a Lease Agreement typically costs
The cost of a lease agreement in Michigan varies. You can find free templates online, or use attorney-drafted forms for $50-$200. Hiring a real estate attorney to customize your lease might cost $300-$500, but it's a one-time expense that protects your interests. There's no state filing fee for residential leases; they are private contracts.
Get a free Michigan lease agreement template and start your rental arrangement with confidence today.
Create your lease agreementBefore You Begin: Michigan Lease Checklist
Prepare the essentials and know Michigan-specific rules before drafting your lease to avoid legal pitfalls.
- Gather the property's legal address and landlord's name and contact info, plus your tenant screening criteria.
- Verify fair housing compliance: don't include discriminatory language based on race, religion, national origin, sex, familial status, or disability.
- Note Michigan's security deposit limit: 1.5 months' rent for most landlords, and know the 30-day return deadline after lease end.
- Decide on lease term and whether you'll use a standard residential lease or a month-to-month agreement with 30-day notice for termination.
- Have the property ready for move-in inspection; document condition with photos and a signed checklist to avoid deposit disputes.
- Ensure you have all necessary disclosures, like lead-based paint for pre-1978 housing, before signing.
DIY vs. hiring a lawyer for your Lease Agreement
| Option | Cost | Time | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIY with a template | ~$40 | Minutes | Standard situations |
| State-specific template (recommended) | Low, one-time | ~15 min | Most people |
| Hire an attorney | $200–$1,500+ | Days–weeks | Complex cases |
Most people complete their lease agreement online in about 15 minutes with a state-specific template — the same structure attorneys use, without the hourly bill.
Frequently asked questions
In Michigan, is a lease agreement required to be in writing?
Only if the lease term is for more than one year. However, it's always wise to have a written lease to avoid misunderstandings.
Do I need to notarize a lease agreement in Michigan?
Notarization is not required for a residential lease in Michigan, but having it notarized can add an extra layer of authenticity and prevent disputes over signatures.
What is the maximum security deposit a landlord can charge in Michigan?
Landlords can charge up to 1.5 times the monthly rent as a security deposit. They must return it within 30 days after the tenant moves out, itemizing any deductions.