Michigan Move-In & Move-Out Inventory Checklist Rules

MCL 554.608 requires inventory checklists at the commencement and termination of occupancy. At move-in, the landlord provides two blank copies and the tenant generally returns a completed copy within seven days unless the parties agree to a shorter period.

Last reviewed: August 30, 20262 official sources cited

Move-in checklistRequired

For units where a security deposit is required.

Tenant return period7 days

May be shortened by agreement, but not extended under the statutory framework described in the official guide.

Move-out checklistLandlord completes

Lists damages claimed to have been caused by the tenant.

Treat the checklist as evidence

Note every preexisting defect.
Add pages if necessary.
Keep a copy.
Take photos/video even when a checklist exists.
Compare the termination checklist with the move-in checklist.

Compare this topic across states

Move-In Inspection & Checklist by State
Compare move-in inventories, condition statements and inspection procedures.

Procedure matters. Michigan’s forwarding-address, damage-notice, response and court-action steps interact. This guide is educational information and not legal advice.

Official sources

Michigan LegislatureMichigan Compiled Laws Chapter 554 — Landlord and Tenant Relationships ↗

Official compiled law containing MCL 554.602–554.614, including the deposit cap, inventories, damage notice and court-action rules.

Michigan LegislatureA Practical Guide for Tenants and Landlords ↗

Official practical guide with the security-deposit timeline and checklist.

Related Michigan guides

Security Deposit →1.5-Month Limit →4-Day Address Rule →30-Day Rule →