Michigan Small-Claims Court Guide for Renters
Use this renter-focused roadmap to sue for deposits, illegal fees, or repair costs — without hiring a lawyer.
Use this renter-focused roadmap to sue for deposits, illegal fees, or repair costs — without hiring a lawyer.
When a landlord ignores your certified demand for a $1 100 security-deposit refund or piles on illegal “last-month” fees, small-claims court becomes the cheapest power tool in your legal toolbox. Unlike district-court lawsuits, small-claims hearings skip formal discovery and attorney requirements, so you can present photos, receipts, and statutes in plain English. The magistrate (not a jury) decides on the spot, often within six weeks of filing. That speed is crucial when you need the money for your next apartment.
Use small claims for money-only disputes: unreturned deposits, unpaid repair reimbursements, overcharged utilities, or lease-breaking penalties that violate the 1.5-month cap. You cannot sue for possession of a unit—that’s handled under Michigan’s Summary Proceedings Act. But you can tack on certified-mail costs and court fees to your claim amount, making the landlord pay for stonewalling you.
The 2025 dollar limit is $7 000. If you ask for a penny more, the clerk will bump you to the district court’s general civil docket—longer timelines, higher fees, and the landlord can bring an attorney.
| Claim Type | Allowed? | Dollar Cap | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Security-deposit refund | Yes | $7 000 | Include double-damage provision only up to cap. |
| Unpaid rent by tenant | Yes | $7 000 | Landlords frequently file here. |
| Return of personal property | No | N/A | Must use District Court replevin action. |
| Evict tenant / regain possession | No | N/A | Handled under Summary Proceedings. |
| Repair-and-deduct disputes | Yes | $7 000 | Bring receipts & before/after photos. |
Before the magistrate hears your story, Michigan court rules require you to give the defendant a chance to pay voluntarily. Draft a concise demand letter that:
Send it certified mail with return receipt. Attach the green receipt to your court form later as proof of notice.
| Dispute | Legal Basis | Time Limit to Sue |
|---|---|---|
| Security-deposit refund | MCL 554.613 | 6 years |
| Illegal late fees | MCL 554.633 | 6 years |
| Unreimbursed repairs | Contract / lease | 6 years |
| Utility overcharges | Contract / fraud | 6 years |
Enter the amount you believe your landlord owes. The tool tells you if the case belongs in small claims and estimates the filing fee.
Filing fees in 2025 range from $55 to $100, depending on claim size. Add $15–$45 for certified mail or a process server. Low-income renters can submit MC 20 Affidavit of Indigency to waive filing fees. Even if approved, you’ll still pay service costs, but judges can order the landlord to reimburse them if you win.
| Claim Amount | Filing Fee |
|---|---|
| $0 – $600 | $55 |
| $601 – $1 750 | $75 |
| $1 751 – $7 000 | $100 |
Magistrates rely on tangible proof—not long explanations. Organize your binder:
Tip: Create a one-page witness outline. Courts allow brief witness statements that cover name, relationship to case, and what they observed.
Arrive 20 minutes early, business-casual attire. Check in with the clerk and keep your binder open to Tab 1. When called, stand, state your name, and give a concise opening: “Your Honor, I’m seeking $1 502 for my security-deposit refund and certified-mail costs under MCL 554.613.” Present evidence in logical order, offer copies to the defendant, and never interrupt.
If the magistrate suggests mediation in the hallway, consider it—settlements often include immediate payment and avoid appeals.
Judgments issue the same day or by mail within a week. The defendant has 21 days to pay or appeal. If payment doesn’t arrive:
If your claim exceeds $7 000 or you prefer faster negotiation, try community mediation. Many district courts offer same-day mediators who draft enforceable agreements. For complex Fair Housing cases, consider hiring counsel via our tenant-attorney directory.