Michigan Rent withholding / escrow

Can a tenant withhold rent for repairs in Michigan?

Under the Housing Law of Michigan, while a dwelling lacks a certificate of compliance, or its certificate is suspended for hazards to health or safety, the duty to pay rent is suspended and the rent is paid into an escrow account (MCL 125.530(3)). This does not apply if the occupants caused the conditions. The Housing Law covers each city, village and township with a population of 10,000 or more. In places under 100,000, it does not cover private dwellings and 2-family dwellings unless the local legislative body adopts it by resolution (MCL 125.401(2)).

Verified Source: MCL 125.530(3); MCL 125.401(2) · last checked 2026-10-23