Michigan's nonpayment notice is called a Demand for Possession, and three statutes govern it. MCL 600.5714(1)(a) sets seven days from service. MCL 600.5716 lists what the demand must contain. MCL 600.5718 lists the only four ways it may be served — and the method most landlords reach for is not among them.
What the demand must contain
MCL 600.5716 is specific. The demand must be in writing, addressed to the person in possession, give the address or other brief description of the premises, clearly state the reasons for the demand and the time to take remedial action, state the amount due at the time of the demand when nonpayment is claimed, and be dated and signed by the person entitled to possession or their attorney or agent.
'At the time of the demand' excludes accelerated rent
MCL 600.5714(1)(a) says rent due does not include accelerated indebtedness claimed because of a breach. A landlord who demands the remaining months of the lease term has overstated the amount, and the demand is defective.
State what is actually owed as of the date on the demand, and nothing more.
Only four ways to serve it
MCL 600.5718 permits personal delivery to the person in possession; personal delivery on the premises to a family or household member, or an employee, of suitable age and discretion, with a request to deliver it; first-class mail addressed to the person in possession; or electronic service the person consented to in writing and replied to electronically.
Posting the demand, slipping it under the door, taping it to the door, and signature-required mail are not valid service in Michigan. This is the single most common procedural mistake here.
Mailing costs you a day
If you mail the demand, service is dated the next regular day for mail delivery after the day it was mailed. Your seven days start from that later date, not from the day you dropped it in the box — so a mailed demand is effectively longer than a hand-delivered one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I tape the demand to the tenant's door?
No. MCL 600.5718 does not permit posting, taping, or slipping under the door. Use personal delivery, delivery to a suitable household member or employee, first-class mail, or agreed electronic service.
Can I demand the rest of the lease term?
No. MCL 600.5714(1)(a) excludes accelerated indebtedness. State the amount due at the time of the demand only.
When do the seven days start?
From service. If you mail the demand, service is dated the next regular mail-delivery day after mailing, which pushes the deadline out.
Can I use certified mail?
First-class mail is what the statute names. Signature-required mail is not valid service, because delivery depends on the tenant choosing to sign.