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You require a lease termination notice to end a month-to-month lease in Michigan. It doesn't matter the reason, though it can't be retaliatory or discriminatory in nature. Learning how to write such a document is crucial before you terminate a tenant for any reason. Let's find out what to include and answer some of your questions.

Lease Termination Letter

A lease termination letter is a legally-binding document to start the process of terminating a month-to-month lease. Michigan law has specific notice requirements involved, so let's learn about them now.

Proper Notice

In most cases, landlords must give tenants a 30-day notice before they can terminate a tenancy. However, this varies.

State Laws

Michigan only requires you to give a one-month notice for termination for monthly and yearly leases.

Landlord Notice

Yes, landlords must give tenants notice before terminating the rental agreement and demanding they vacate the rental unit. Once that happens, the landlord may then use the security deposit to make repairs or to recoup money if the tenant fails to pay rent.

Penalties

If the landlord doesn't send the tenant a notice to vacate, they could face:

  • Financial penalties or legal fees
  • Court proceedings
  • Automatic extension of the lease terms
  • Returning the security deposit, no matter what

Termination of Tenancy

If the tenancy doesn't have a definitive term, the landlord can use the notice of termination to end it. The required period depends on how often rent payments are made as follows:

  • Weekly - One week notice
  • Monthly - One month notice
  • Three or More Months - One month notice

Termination of Tenancy with Specific Term

When a lease has a specific date to end the tenancy, the landlord can wait for that to finish before the tenant moves out. However, if there is an automatic renewal clause, the landlord must provide notice of 30 days, letting the tenant know their tenancy is terminated.

What to Include

You should include this information:

  • Type of agreement
  • Lease information
  • Names of parties involved
  • Motive for termination
  • Date the lease is terminated
  • Signature

Build Your Own

With DoorLoop, you don't have to worry about creating a legal lease termination letter. Use one of these forms to get started today:

eSignature

If you are terminating your lease and need the tenant to sign, or you want to sign a new lease with a new tenant, you want to make the process as easy and efficient as possible.

With DoorLoop, you can get your agreemenets eSigned in a few seconds. You can also get to the eSignature step much faster by creating reusable templates that are autofilled with tenants' information.

DoorLoop also makes it so simple to find the best tenants in the first place by syndicating your lisitngs on popular websites Zillow, Trulia, Hotpads, Apartments.com, and more. You can also make sure you're bringing in the best tenants by screening your prospects in seconds through DoorLoop.

For more information about DoorLoop, learn more or schedule a free demo.

Conclusion

Creating and sending a Michigan lease termination letter is the first step in removing a tenant from the rental property. This is primarily used for month-to-month leases, and you're required to follow the legal laws at the federal or state level. DoorLoop can help you draft a notice to vacate form effortlessly.

FAQs

How Should I Deliver My Michigan Lease Termination Letter?

You have two options for sending a termination notice: certified mail and a certificate of service.

What Are Michigan Notice Requirements?

Michigan state law requires you to use a 30-day notice for most situations.

Do I Have to Provide Notice of My Reason for Terminating the Agreement?

No, you aren't required to provide a reason for termination, but it's generally best to do so. Likewise, it's illegal to act on retaliatory or discriminatory motives. However, if the tenant failed to adhere to the rules in the rental agreement, you may state that as the purpose for the form.

Can I customize my own form or agreement?

Yes, you always can, however if you want to be 100% sure you are protected, you should consult an attorney in your local area.

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David is the co-founder & CMO of DoorLoop, a best-selling author, legal CLE speaker, and real estate investor. When he's not hanging with his three children, he's writing articles here!