Tenant Rights in Dearborn, Michigan

Last updated: April 2026

Dearborn renters are protected by Michigan's landlord-tenant statutes, which cap security deposits, require written notice to terminate tenancies, and prohibit self-help evictions. There is no rent control in Dearborn or anywhere in Michigan.

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Key Takeaways

Rent Control: None — Michigan state law (M.C.L. § 123.409) prohibits local rent control ordinances statewide.
Security Deposit: Capped at 1.5 months' rent; must be returned within 30 days of move-out with itemized statement (M.C.L. § 554.613).
Notice to Vacate: At least 30 days' written notice required to terminate a month-to-month tenancy (M.C.L. § 554.134).
Just Cause Eviction: Not required — landlords do not need a reason to end a month-to-month tenancy with proper notice.
Local Resources: Michigan Legal Help (michiganlegalhelp.org), Legal Aid & Defender Association (ladadetroit.org)

1. Overview: Tenant Rights in Dearborn

Dearborn renters are governed by Michigan's statewide landlord-tenant statutes, including the Security Deposit Act (M.C.L. § 554.601 et seq.), the Truth in Renting Act, and general landlord-tenant provisions under M.C.L. § 554.134. Michigan state law has prohibited local rent control since 1988, so Dearborn has no additional local rent ordinances.

2. Does Dearborn Have Rent Control?

Michigan state law (M.C.L. § 123.409) has prohibited local governments from enacting rent control ordinances since 1988. Landlords in Dearborn may raise rent by any amount with proper notice — there are no caps on rent increases under state or local law.

3. Michigan State Tenant Protections That Apply in Dearborn

Michigan law provides the following key protections for Dearborn renters:

Security Deposit Cap: Landlords may not charge more than 1.5 months' rent as a security deposit. They must provide an itemized damage statement within 30 days of move-out and return any balance owed. Failure to follow the statutory process forfeits the right to retain any portion of the deposit (M.C.L. § 554.613).
Notice to Terminate: Month-to-month tenants must receive at least 30 days' written notice before the landlord can terminate the tenancy. Notice must be given in the same rental period it is intended to take effect (M.C.L. § 554.134).
Habitability: Michigan's Truth in Renting Act and common law require landlords to maintain habitable premises. Tenants may use the rent escrow remedy — depositing rent with the court — if the landlord fails to make repairs after written notice (M.C.L. § 125.534).
Lockout Prohibition: Self-help eviction is illegal. A landlord who changes your locks or shuts off utilities to force you out may be liable for actual damages plus attorney's fees (M.C.L. § 600.2918).
Retaliation Protection: Landlords cannot retaliate against tenants for reporting code violations or exercising legal rights. Retaliatory eviction is a recognized defense in Michigan courts.

4. Security Deposit Rules in Dearborn

Michigan caps security deposits at 1.5 months' rent. Within 30 days of move-out, your landlord must provide a written itemized statement of any deductions and return the remaining balance. If your landlord fails to comply with these requirements, they forfeit the right to keep any portion of the deposit under M.C.L. § 554.613. Document the unit's condition thoroughly at move-in and move-out, and provide your forwarding address in writing to start the 30-day clock.

5. Eviction Process and Your Rights in Dearborn

To evict a tenant in Dearborn, a landlord must serve written notice — typically a 7-day notice for nonpayment of rent or lease violations — and then file a summary proceeding in the 19th District Court if you do not vacate. You have the right to appear and contest the eviction. Self-help eviction is illegal under M.C.L. § 600.2918; a landlord who changes your locks, removes your belongings, or shuts off utilities without a court order may owe you actual damages plus attorney's fees.

6. Resources for Dearborn Tenants

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Dearborn have rent control?

No. Michigan state law (M.C.L. § 123.409) has prohibited local rent control ordinances statewide since 1988.

How much can my landlord raise my rent in Dearborn?

There is no limit. Michigan has no rent stabilization law, so landlords may raise rent by any amount at lease renewal or with proper notice on a month-to-month tenancy.

How long does my landlord have to return my security deposit in Dearborn?

30 days from move-out, along with a written itemized statement of deductions. If your landlord fails to comply, they forfeit the right to keep any part of the deposit under M.C.L. § 554.613.

What notice does my landlord need before evicting me in Dearborn?

A 7-day written notice for nonpayment of rent or lease violations is typical. To end a month-to-month tenancy, at least 30 days' written notice is required under M.C.L. § 554.134.

Can my landlord lock me out or shut off utilities in Dearborn?

No. Self-help eviction is illegal in Michigan. A landlord who changes your locks, removes your belongings, or shuts off utilities without a court order may be liable for actual damages plus attorney's fees under M.C.L. § 600.2918.

What can I do if my landlord refuses to make repairs in Dearborn?

Send a written repair request and keep a copy. If the landlord does not respond, Michigan allows tenants to deposit rent with the court (rent escrow) under M.C.L. § 125.534. Contact Michigan Legal Help or the Legal Aid & Defender Association for guidance on next steps.

This article provides general information about tenant rights in Dearborn and is not legal advice. Laws change — verify current rules with a local attorney or tenant organization.

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Other Cities in Michigan

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