How to Serve Eviction & Lease Termination Notices in Michigan

Last Updated: December 27, 2022 by Marnie Snyder

In Michigan, in order for the delivery of a lease termination or eviction notice to be legal, certain rules and procedures must be followed. If they are not and the case proceeds to court, the case may be postponed or dismissed by a judge.

Who Can Serve Notices in Michigan?

In Michigan, landlords can serve eviction notices and lease termination notices themselves. Landlords may choose to hire a sheriff, process server or independent party over eighteen (18) years old to serve an official notice, but they are not required to do so by law.

When Can Notices Be Served in Michigan?

In Michigan, lease termination and eviction notices can be served immediately on any day of the week and at any time of day.

For a 7 Day Notice to Quit, the eviction notice for tenants that do not pay rent in full and on time, a landlord can serve the notice the day after rent is due. There is no legal grace period for paying rent in Michigan, rent is late starting the day after it’s due.

Acceptable Forms of Service in Michigan

A landlord can deliver notices in Michigan using any of the below acceptable methods:
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1. Handing the notice to the tenant in person;
2. Handing the notice to a person of suitable age and discretion;
3. Mailing the notice by first class mail;
4. Sending the notice by electronic service.

When sending the notice by first class mail, the notice takes effect on the next day mail is delivered. If the following day is a legal holiday or a day when the mail is not delivered, then the notice will not take effect until the next day mail is delivered.

If the notice is sent electronically, it is considered delivered if the receiving party responds to the electronic message.

Obtaining Proof of Service in Michigan

A landlord can demonstrate proof that a notice was delivered through the following methods:

• Hand Delivery – by completing a Declaration of Service at the time of delivery.
• First Class Mail – via a post office receipt and by completing a Declaration of Service at the time of mailing.
• Electronic Service – keep a copy of electronic transmission and by completing a Declaration of Service.

Michigan Eviction & Lease Termination Notice Forms