Detroit Renters
Get Your Security Deposit Back in Detroit
Your Detroit landlord has 30 days to return your security deposit after you move out. Know your rights and hold them accountable.
30
Days to return
$1,100
Avg. rent
640K
Population
Detroit Local Info
Michigan requires deposits be returned within 30 days. Detroit tenants can recover double damages plus attorney fees for wrongful withholding.
Local Ordinance
Michigan Security Deposit Act — MCL § 554.601-614
Landlord must return deposit within 30 days of move-out. Must provide itemized list of damages and estimated or actual repair costs within that 30-day period.
Penalties: Double the amount wrongfully withheld plus attorney fees under MCL § 554.613. If landlord fails to provide itemized list within 30 days, they forfeit the right to claim any deductions.
Read the full ordinance →Detroit Deposit Rules
Interest Required
No
Max Deposit
1.5 months' rent
Return Deadline
30 days
Penalty
Double the amount wrongfully withheld plus attorney fees under MCL § 554.613. If landlord fails to provide itemized list within 30 days, they forfeit the right to claim any deductions.
Get Your Deposit Back in Detroit: Step by Step
Wait for the 30-Day Deadline to Pass
Michigan law gives your landlord exactly 30 days from your move-out date to return your deposit with an itemized list of deductions.
Send a Demand Letter
Reference MCL § 554.609-614 and note the double-damages penalty for wrongful withholding. Send via certified mail.
File in 36th District Court Small Claims
File at 421 Madison St. Filing fee ranges from $30-$70. Claims up to $7,000. Request double damages.
Attend Your Hearing
Bring your lease, deposit receipt, move-out photos, demand letter, and any communication from your landlord. The court can award double the withheld amount.
Calculate Your Detroit Deadline
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Local Small Claims Court
Court
36th District Court — Small Claims Division
Address
421 Madison St, Detroit, MI 48226
Filing Fee
$30-$70
Claims Limit
$7,000
Michigan Security Deposit Law
Return Deadline
30 days after move-out
Penalty for Late Return
You can recover up to twice your deposit amount, plus attorney's fees
Detroit Security Deposit FAQ
How long does my Detroit landlord have to return my deposit?
30 days from the date you move out. Michigan law (MCL § 554.609) requires the landlord to mail an itemized list of damages and the remaining deposit within this window.
What is the maximum security deposit in Michigan?
1.5 months' rent. This cap applies to all residential rentals in Michigan, including Detroit.
What damages can I recover if my Detroit landlord wrongfully withholds?
You can recover double the amount wrongfully withheld, plus reasonable attorney fees.
Does my Detroit landlord have to pay interest on my deposit?
No. Michigan does not require landlords to hold deposits in interest-bearing accounts or pay interest.
Where do I file a small claims case in Detroit?
File at the 36th District Court, 421 Madison St. Filing fees range from $30-$70. Claims up to $7,000.