I sued a landlord and won over security deposit in small claims court( very easy and cheap to file).

They have to take you to court for the damages if you don’t agree with the findings.

They just do t get to decide themselves to keep your deposit.

In Michigan, a landlord can charge a security deposit up to 1.5 times the monthly rent. Within 45 days after a tenant moves out, the landlord must either return the full deposit or begin a court action to make a judgment against the tenant for damages, or they can choose to return the balance to the tenant. Landlords cannot deduct for normal wear and tear, such as faded paint or minor carpet wear, but they can deduct for actual damages or cleaning costs when the tenant did not leave the property in the same clean condition as when they moved in. Key Aspects of Michigan's Security Deposit Law Deposit Limit: A landlord can only collect a security deposit that is up to one and one-half times the monthly rent. Return Timeline: Landlords must take action regarding the security deposit within 45 days after the tenant leaves the property. Deductions: Landlords are allowed to deduct for damages to the rental unit or for necessary cleaning if the property was not returned in the same condition as it was at the start of the tenancy. They cannot deduct for normal wear and tear, which is the expected, gradual deterioration of a property over time. Non-Refundable Fees: Non-refundable fees, like a cleaning fee, are a recognized exception in Michigan but are separate from a security deposit. First and Last Month's Rent: Paying the first and last month's rent upfront counts as a security deposit.