Move-Out Cost Forecaster – Michigan Rentals

Why Forecast Move-Out Costs

A head-start on budgeting beats scrambling on lease-end day. Many Michigan renters only discover hefty cleaning or repair bills after their landlord mails the itemized deduction letter. By estimating likely costs now, you can schedule affordable vendors, negotiate repairs, or tackle DIY projects—turning a dreaded expense into a planned line item. Knowing averages also arms you for deposit disputes. Bottom line: a realistic forecast protects both your wallet and your sanity.

Move-Out Cost Calculator

Results

Projected Professional Cost: $0.00

Potential DIY Savings: $0.00

Likely Deposit Refund: $0.00

Cleaning vs. Damage: Know the Difference

Michigan landlords can’t deduct “wear and tear” but can bill for negligence. Grasping this line determines whether you owe $0 or $300 for a scuffed wall.

Typically Wear & Tear

Minor carpet flattening in high-traffic zones
Faded paint after multiple years
Loose door knobs that still function
Light dust inside vents

Common Tenant Damage

Pet urine deep in carpet pad
Holes larger than a nail
Broken mini-blinds or missing screens
Oil-stained driveway from vehicle leaks

For deeper reading, see our security-deposit primer and dispute guide.

Average Vendor Rates in Michigan (2025)

Methodology: Averages pulled from Thumbtack listings (Q1 2025) and verified invoices across five Michigan cities.
Service	Metro Detroit Avg	Lansing Avg	Grand Rapids Avg	Statewide Low–High
General Cleaning (per hr)	$44	$40	$42	$38–46
Carpet Steam (sq ft)	$0.62	$0.55	$0.58	$0.50–0.70
Paint Touch-Up (sq ft)	$1.70	$1.50	$1.60	$1.40–1.90
Handyman Labor (per hr)	$70	$60	$65	$55–75
Junk Removal (per load)	$180	$150	$165	$140–210

Pro Tip: Photograph every room before moving boxes—then generate a move-in / move-out checklist to compare later.

Security-Deposit Timeline Reminder

Michigan’s clock starts the moment you relinquish keys. Miss a step and you could delay your refund.

Day 0Move-out
Day 4Keys & address
Day 30Itemized notice
Day 45Deposit mailed

Full statute breakdown: Security Deposit Laws Guide.

Reducing Surprise Expenses

Simple prep can shave hundreds off your bill. Use this checklist:

Schedule a pre-walkthrough with your landlord two weeks before move-out.
Split a group-buy carpet cleaning with neighbors to secure bulk rates.
Replace all burnt-out bulbs; $5 today beats a $25 “maintenance fee.”
Borrow or rent a shop-vac for garage and basement corners.
Return all keys—including mailbox—to avoid locksmith charges.
Send your forwarding address via certified mail; proof counts in small-claims court.

Example Scenarios

Studio in Detroit

Deposit: $1 200 | DIY 30 %

Cleaning 4 hrs + minor paint = $295. DIY saves $88. Refund ≈ $905.

3-Bed Student House (East Lansing)

Deposit: $2 250 | DIY 40 %

Carpet steam + junk removal = $640. DIY saves $160. Refund ≈ $1 450. See our student renters guide.

4-Bed Family Rental (Kalamazoo)

Deposit: $2 700 | DIY 15 %

Repairs on drywall holes drove cost to $1 100. DIY saved $165. Refund ≈ $1 600.

Frequently Asked Questions

Courts usually allow landlords to prorate carpet life over five to seven years. If the carpet is older than its useful life, you may owe little or nothing. Always request copies of invoices and depreciation tables.

Yes—if you provide a paid receipt and the unit meets “broom clean” standards. Landlords cannot double-bill for the same task. Document the condition with photos.

Michigan law requires an itemized list of damages including actual or estimated costs. A lump-sum “cleaning: $300” without invoices can be challenged in small claims.

The law says “reasonable time,” typically daytime hours. You have the right to be present. Suggest two slots that fit both schedules to avoid conflict.

Often yes—paint is expected to be refreshed every 3–5 years. Small scuffs may be normal wear; however bold accent walls or large gouges can still incur charges.