How to Remove an Eviction from Your Record in Michigan
Having an eviction on your record in Michigan can hurt your chances of renting a new apartment, getting approved for a loan, or passing a background check. Whether the eviction was dismissed, entered in error, or resolved long ago, there are legal remedies available to help you clear or reduce its impact.
This guide walks you through how to remove, seal, or set aside an eviction case in Michigan—step by step—so you can get a fresh start and rebuild your rental history.
Can You Remove an Eviction from Your Record in Michigan?
Yes—under certain conditions, you can remove or reduce the visibility of an eviction case in Michigan. While there’s no automatic expungement law for civil eviction cases, the court allows you to:
- Set aside a default judgment
- Dismiss or vacate a case that was resolved or filed unfairly
- Ask for the record to be sealed or redacted, though this is rare
Reference: Michigan Courts – Civil Case Procedures and local District Court rules for landlord/tenant disputes.
Why It’s Important to Remove an Eviction from Your Record
- Improves rental application approval rates
- Reduces red flags on credit and tenant screening reports
- Prevents future housing discrimination
- Rebuilds your reputation and financial credibility
Even dismissed or resolved cases can still appear in public databases unless removed by court order.
Steps to Remove an Eviction from Your Record in Michigan
Step 1: Get a Copy of Your Eviction Record
Before you take action, review your case details:
- Visit your local District Court’s website (where the eviction was filed)
- Use the Michigan Courts Case Lookup Tool
- Search by your name or case number
- Note the case status: Was it dismissed? Was a judgment entered? Was it settled?
Also check your credit report at AnnualCreditReport.com and request your tenant screening report from CoreLogic, TransUnion SmartMove, or RentGrow.
Step 2: Determine Your Case Outcome
Your next steps depend on how your eviction case ended.
If the case was dismissed or ruled in your favor:
You can file a motion to remove the case from public view, especially if it’s causing hardship or was filed wrongfully.
If a default judgment was entered against you:
You can file a motion to set aside the judgment under Michigan Court Rule (MCR) 2.612(C).
If you settled with the landlord:
You may be able to file a stipulated dismissal or request to vacate the judgment based on mutual agreement.
Step 3: File a Motion to Set Aside a Default Eviction Judgment
If you missed your court date and the landlord won by default, you can file a motion to set aside the judgment.
Requirements:
- Must file within 21 days (or explain delay if later)
- Show good cause (e.g., improper service, emergency, lack of notice)
- Demonstrate a meritorious defense (e.g., you paid rent, conditions were unlivable, lease dispute)
Learn more:
A granted motion will vacate the judgment and restore your case to its original status.
Step 4: Request a Stipulated Dismissal or Resolution with the Landlord
If you resolved the matter with your landlord (e.g., paid the rent, moved out on time), you can ask them to sign a stipulated order of dismissal.
What to do:
- Draft a stipulated dismissal order
- Have the landlord sign and submit it to the court
- Once dismissed, you can then petition the court to seal or redact the case, especially if it’s impacting your ability to find housing
Many landlords are willing to cooperate if you show good faith and resolve the issue.
Step 5: Request a Court Order to Seal or Remove the Record (if eligible)
While Michigan does not guarantee record sealing for civil cases, some courts may consider redacting or removing the eviction from public search if:
- The case was dismissed
- The case was filed in error or was abusive
- The record is causing documented hardship (e.g., repeated rental denials)
You’ll need to file a motion with a supporting affidavit explaining your situation and hardship.
Step 6: Dispute Third-Party Reports and Tenant Screening Databases
Even after the court updates your record, screening companies may still report the eviction. Here’s how to fix that:
Steps:
- Request your report from CoreLogic, Experian RentBureau, or TransUnion SmartMove
- File a dispute with proof of dismissal, sealing, or judgment being set aside
- Request a correction or removal under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA)
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau – Disputing Rental Background Checks
Tips to Improve Your Rental Chances After an Eviction
While working to remove the eviction from your record, you can still boost your rental credibility:
Be Transparent
Explain the situation honestly to potential landlords, especially if it was dismissed or resolved.
Provide Strong References
Ask previous landlords or employers to write letters of support.
Offer Financial Assurance
Make a larger security deposit or prepay a few months of rent.
Use a Co-Signer
A co-signer with strong credit can help offset concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I remove an eviction from my record in Michigan?
Yes, especially if the case was dismissed, resolved unfairly, or won by default. You can file a motion to set aside or request dismissal based on landlord agreement.
Does Michigan allow eviction expungement?
Not formally. Michigan does not have a civil expungement statute, but courts can vacate, dismiss, or seal records in certain cases.
How long does an eviction stay on my record in Michigan?
- Court records: Indefinitely unless removed
- Credit reports: Typically 7 years
- Tenant screening databases: Varies, usually 3–7 years
Will landlords still see my eviction after it’s dismissed?
Yes, unless the court seals the case or it is removed from screening databases. That’s why it’s important to follow up with screening agencies after the case is resolved.
Can TPS Help Remove an Eviction from My Record in Michigan?
Absolutely. TPS offers dedicated legal support to Michigan tenants seeking to:
- File motions to vacate or dismiss eviction judgments
- Negotiate settlements with landlords
- Prepare legal forms and appear in court
- Clear up background reports and rental history
Take Back Control of Your Rental Future in Michigan
An eviction on your record doesn’t have to hold you back forever. With the right legal tools—and guidance from TPS—you can vacate judgments, dismiss cases, and even request that your record be restricted from public access.
Start today. Don’t let an eviction define your next opportunity.