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Bill

SB 375

Housing: landlord and tenants; limitations on fees charged to tenants; provide for. Amends secs. 2 & 3 of 1978 PA 454 (MCL 554.632 & 554.633).

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Rosemary Bayer and 5 co-sponsors

Michigan bill limits landlord fees on tenants to reduce housing costs and improve rental affordability under updated tenant protections.

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Bill Summary · SB 375

Legislative bill overview

SB 375 amends Michigan's Landlord and Tenant Relations Act to limit the fees landlords can charge tenants. The bill modifies sections 2 and 3 of the 1978 PA 454, which govern landlord-tenant relationships and fee structures. The specific fee limitations are not detailed in this legislative summary, but the bill represents a regulatory constraint on rental housing costs beyond base rent.

Why is this important

Rental fees significantly impact housing affordability for tenants, particularly low-income households. Landlords have historically charged various fees (application, screening, late payment, maintenance, etc.) that can substantially increase housing costs. This bill attempts to protect tenants from excessive fees while potentially affecting landlord revenue models and rental market dynamics in Michigan.

Potential points of contention

  • Defining reasonable fees: The bill's effectiveness depends on how "limitations" are defined—unclear thresholds could create enforcement challenges and disputes about which fees are permissible
  • Landlord compliance costs: Property owners may argue that fee restrictions reduce their ability to cover legitimate expenses like background checks, credit reporting, and property maintenance
  • Market effects: Restricting fee revenue could incentivize landlords to raise base rent instead, potentially shifting costs rather than reducing overall housing expenses for tenants

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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