How Detroit Renters Can Protect Security Deposits
Know your legal deadlines for disputing charges after moving out to ensure you reclaim your money from landlords.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Apartments
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Detroit renters are finding it increasingly difficult to reclaim security deposits, with recent disputes highlighting specific charges for cleaning and maintenance. A 2024 national survey by Zillow found that fewer than half of tenants received their full deposit back, while one-quarter reported receiving no refund at all.
Why it matters
Security deposits serve as a vital financial buffer for tenants, yet funds are frequently withheld due to contested charges for property damage or unpaid bills. Tenants often struggle to recover these amounts because the legal process requires strict adherence to notification timelines.
Michigan law requires tenants to provide a forwarding address within four days of move-out and to dispute any deductions within seven days. Locally, renters have reported being charged $250 for inspection fees and $650 for wall repainting, while one tenant recovered $1,863.76.
The players
Titus Property Group
A residential property management firm that operates rental units and manages move-out inspections.
Bell Asset Management
A management entity that oversees rental properties and handles security deposit accounting.
The details
Landlords typically retain deposits to cover damages beyond normal wear and tear, but disputes often arise over maintenance costs like painting or administrative fees. To protect their interests, tenants should complete a thorough move-in checklist and capture photos of the property condition before moving in and after moving out. If a landlord applies unexpected deductions, renters must formally dispute these charges within the narrow seven-day window provided by state law.
Timeline
2021: Dana Kornberg moved out of her Hamtramck rental.
2024: Zillow conducted a national survey regarding security deposit returns.
June 2026: Monica Mahecha moved out of her apartment near New Center.
2026: Dana Kornberg recovered her security deposit.
The Home Front
Rising concerns over deposit retentions reflect a broader trend where tenants struggle to recover funds amidst disputes over routine maintenance costs. This local pattern follows national findings that fewer than half of renters successfully receive their full security deposit back after moving.
Always document the condition of your unit with date-stamped photos and a signed checklist at the start and end of your lease. If your landlord withholds funds, ensure you send your forwarding address within four days and file a formal written dispute within seven days.
The takeaway
Securing a deposit refund often depends on your ability to prove the property condition through meticulous record-keeping. Keep copies of your initial move-in checklist and all correspondence regarding move-out inspections to support your case if you need to file a claim in small claims court.
Further reading
Learn more about local rental policies and tenant rights on the Apartments section page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Outlier Media.
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