Michigan Commercial Property Laws: A Landlord's Overview
Understand the unrestrictive regulatory landscape of Michigan commercial real estate and the powerful role of freedom of contract in commercial leasing.
Legal Disclaimer
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. Laws change frequently — always verify current regulations and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice specific to your situation. Landager is a property management platform, not a law firm.Information last verified: May 2026.
Since Michigan's admission to the Union on January 26, 1837, the state has established a legal framework for property possession. For commercial properties, the recovery of possession is governed by the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, specifically the summary proceedings outlined in MCL 600.5714.
Under Michigan law, a person entitled to possession of a premises may recover it through summary proceedings in specific circumstances, such as when a tenant holds over after failing to pay rent or after the lease term has expired.
The Power of the Lease Agreement
Under MCL 600.5714, the process for recovering possession of a premises is strictly defined. A person entitled to possession may recover it through summary proceedings when a tenant holds over after failing or refusing to pay rent due under the lease within 7 days from the service of a written demand for possession.
The statute also allows for the recovery of possession in cases involving controlled substances, health hazards, or physical threats, provided specific notice requirements and conditions, such as the filing of a formal police report, are met.
Key Differences from Residential Law
While residential and commercial tenancies may differ, the statutory requirements for recovering possession under MCL 600.5714 apply to various types of premises.
"Self-Help" Evictions are Generally Banned
Landlords in Michigan must follow the statutory summary proceedings process to recover possession of a commercial property. Under MCL 600.5714, a landlord must serve the appropriate written demand and utilize the court system to regain possession.
The legal process for eviction outlined in the statute implies that landlords cannot bypass the court system through "self-help" measures, such as changing locks without a court order. To legally recover possession, a landlord must obtain a judgment through summary proceedings and utilize a court officer to execute the recovery of the premises.
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