There are several factors that affect the eviction process in Michigan, and these factors determine the length of time it will take to evict a tenant.
Slide One: Before the eviction process can begin, the landlord must deliver a warning letter. If the letter doesn’t invoke a response, the next step is to send the tenants a legal notice. If the legal notice goes unnoticed, the landlord must file a complaint. After the complaint is filed, the summons is sent and the eviction process begins.
Slide Two: Costs
The eviction process can cost anywhere from $300 to $2000, and costs can go up depending on if the tenant refuses to leave the dwelling. It is important to review Michigan eviction laws before starting the eviction process. If possible, negotiate with the tenant first to try to get them out of the home and leave eviction as a last resort.
Slide Three: The hearing
Shortly after the complaint is filed by the landlord, a hearing is scheduled. The court system has an expedited hearing for eviction cases called “summary proceedings”. Landlords typically represent themselves in these hearings. Ensure that you bring all evidence, including photos that you may have, to your hearing.
Slide Four: Tenant no-shows
If the tenant doesn’t show up to the hearing, the judge may issue default judgement to the landlord. This means that the landlord can go ahead with the eviction process. In some cases, the judges will allow the tenant another court date, which typically occurs ten business days after the original date.
Slide Five: Contested eviction
Contested evictions can go on for months. If the tenants prove that they were discriminated against or that they’ve paid their rent on time, they may be granted a stay. The court proceedings can go on for months after this, which will cost the landlord more money in the end.
Slide Six: Writ of restitution
After the eviction notice has been issued, if the tenant refuses to leave ten days after the court ruling, the landlord can go back to court to get a writ of restitution. This will force the tenant to leave the premises, and is typically done with the help of the sheriff.
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Final Slide: Evictions in Michigan can take anywhere from weeks to months. The time it takes to evict a tenant depends on the situation. It may be best to work with the tenant and try to come up with a resolution before you end up spending thousands of dollars on the eviction process. If this is not an option, start the process sooner rather than later.
