Eviction Process in Michigan: A Step-by-Step Guide for Property Owners
- Aug 6
- 5 min read
Introduction
Navigating an eviction as a landlord in Michigan can be challenging, especially with strict legal requirements and tenant protections in place. Whether you're dealing with non-payment of rent, lease violations, or holdover tenants, understanding the legal eviction process is essential to avoid costly mistakes.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the Michigan eviction process step-by-step, including timelines, required notices, and legal documentation—ensuring you stay compliant and protect your rental investment.
Need a quick answer on when you can legally file for eviction or schedule enforcement? Scroll down to use our free Michigan Eviction Timeline Calculator to estimate your exact timeline based on state law.
Table of Contents
What Is an Eviction?
Legal Reasons to Evict a Tenant in Michigan
Step-by-Step Eviction Process in Michigan
Required Eviction Notices by Reason
Eviction Timeline Calculator (Interactive Tool below)
Michigan Eviction Timeline
What Happens After a Court Judgment?
Common Mistakes Landlords Should Avoid
FAQs About Michigan Evictions
Final Thoughts
1. What Is an Eviction?
An eviction is the legal process of removing a tenant from a rental property. In Michigan, landlords must follow a formal court-supervised procedure—self-help evictions (like changing locks or removing belongings) are illegal.
Pro Tip: Want a deeper look into Michigan eviction laws and tenant protections? Check out this official eviction guide from Michigan Legal Help — it covers every scenario from nonpayment to illegal lockouts.
2. Legal Reasons to Evict a Tenant in Michigan
Under Michigan law, landlords can initiate eviction for several valid reasons:
Non-payment of rent
Violation of lease terms
Illegal activity on the premises
Holdover tenancy (when a lease ends and the tenant doesn’t leave)
Health and safety violations
Property damage beyond normal wear and tear
Related: Top 5 Most Overlooked Lease Clauses
"Even small procedural errors can delay your eviction or get your case thrown out." - G3 Team Insight
3. Step-by-Step Eviction Process in Michigan
Here’s a detailed walkthrough of the Michigan eviction process:
Step 1: Serve the Proper Notice
Before filing an eviction lawsuit, you must give tenants formal written notice.
7-Day Notice to Quit: For non-payment of rent.
30-Day Notice to Quit: For month-to-month tenancies with no lease.
30-Day Notice for Lease Violations: If violations are not remedied within the notice period.
24-Hour Notice: For illegal drug activity.
Pro-Tip: Always deliver notice by hand, certified mail, or a process server for proof.
Step 2: File a Complaint with the Court
If the tenant doesn’t comply within the notice period, file a Complaint for Possession of Premises at your local district court. You’ll need:
The original lease (if available)
Proof of notice delivery
Details of the violation
There is a filing fee, typically ranging from $45–$150.
Step 3: Attend the Court Hearing
The court will schedule a hearing within 10 days of the complaint filing. Both parties can present evidence, and the judge will issue a ruling.
If the tenant doesn’t show, you may receive a default judgment.
oesn’t show, you may receive a default judgment.
If the judge rules in your favor, they will issue a Judgment of Possession.
Pro Tip: For legal background on landlord-tenant court procedures in Michigan, the State Bar of Michigan provides helpful landlord-tenant resources to guide you through hearings and legal expectations.
Step 4: Request an Order of Eviction (Writ of Restitution)
If the tenant still does not vacate after the judgment (usually 10 days), you must request a Writ of Restitution from the court.
This authorizes the sheriff to remove the tenant and their belongings from the property.
Step 5: Enforcement by Law Enforcement
The local sheriff or court officer carries out the eviction. You must not attempt to remove the tenant yourself.
Note: In winter months, some Michigan courts have local ordinances limiting evictions during extreme weather.
4. Required Eviction Notices by Reason
Reason for Eviction | Type of Notice | Duration |
Non-payment of rent | 7-Day Notice to Quit | 7 calendar days |
Lease violation | 30-Day Notice | 30 calendar days |
Illegal drug activity | 24-Hour Notice | 1 calendar day |
No lease / month-to-month | 30-Day Termination | 30 calendar days |
Need help figuring out your eviction timeline? Use our free Michigan Eviction Timeline Calculator to estimate when you're legally allowed to take each step in the eviction process — including notice periods, court filing dates, and sheriff enforcement windows.
This tool follows the State of Michigan's eviction laws for nonpayment, lease violations, and other common landlord-tenant issues. Just enter the date you served the notice and the reason for eviction — we’ll handle the timeline.
5. Michigan Eviction Timeline
Step | Estimated Timeframe |
Notice period | 1–30 days depending on reason |
Court scheduling | 7–10 days after filing |
Court hearing & judgment | 1–2 weeks |
Writ of Restitution issued | After 10 days |
Sheriff enforces eviction | 1–2 weeks after judgment |
Total time | 3–8 weeks on average |
6. What Happens After a Court Judgment?
If the judgment favors the landlord:
You may collect unpaid rent through garnishment
The tenant will receive 10 days to vacate
You can request a money judgment for damages
If tenants leave personal property behind, Michigan requires a specific process before disposal
Pro Tip: For official post-judgment procedures—including garnishment, writs of restitution, and handling tenant property—visit the Michigan Courts' Landlord-Tenant Resources. It’s the go-to legal hub for landlords navigating evictions in Michigan.
7. Common Mistakes Landlords Should Avoid
Skipping required notice periods
Improper delivery of notice
Using illegal self-help eviction tactics
Failing to document communications with tenants
Not appearing in court
Even small procedural errors can delay your eviction or get your case thrown out.
8. FAQs About Michigan Evictions
Q: Can I evict a tenant during winter in Michigan?
A: Evictions can proceed, but local courts may delay sheriff removals during extreme cold.
Q: Can I evict without a lease?
A: Yes, but you must provide at least 30 days’ written notice for month-to-month tenants.
Q: Do I need a lawyer to evict a tenant?
A: Not always, but legal counsel is recommended for complex cases or if you're a new landlord.
Q: What happens if the tenant files for bankruptcy?
A: Evictions may be temporarily paused under automatic stay provisions. You’ll need to consult legal counsel.
9. Final Thoughts
Evictions in Michigan require landlords to follow specific legal steps and timelines. Rushing the process or skipping notice requirements can lead to delays—or worse, legal trouble. And remember: We love helping landlords, but we can’t give you legal advice — mostly because our law degrees are imaginary. If you’re dealing with legal action, a licensed attorney is your best friend.
Need more official info? Visit the State of Michigan website for access to state services, legal updates, and government resources for landlords and property owners.
Whether you're managing one unit or an entire portfolio, staying compliant and consistent is key to protecting your investment.
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About the Author Ricardo Reis - Learn About Ricardo
Entrepreneur, Inventor, Investor, Military Veteran. Ricardo is a member of G3 Management & Investments a division of Great Lakes Real Estate and a real estate professional. He is a successful real estate investor and property professional with over 15 years of experience.
DISCLAIMER - NOT INVESTMENT, FINANCIAL, LEGAL, TAX, OR OTHER ADVICE: This blog is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional advice. We do not offer advice, solicitation, recommendations, or endorsements. You are solely responsible for evaluating the information's merits and risks. Always consult a qualified professional before acting.
