My question involves landlord-tenant law in the State of: Michigan
The house we began renting fourteen years ago in 8/2000 was advertised at $1,100/month. However, the landlord told us he was charging us $1,200/month because of our large family. We also paid directly for all utilities, as well as and minor repairs (anything less than $100).
My husband, who signed the original lease, passed away in January. I gave notice that we were moving when I paid August's rent. We finished moving out on 8/30 and I returned the keys on 9/2. There was no one at landlord's office on Labor Day or the day after and no drop box but he stopped by as we were leaving. I have since paid all final utility bills.
On 10/4, I received a Notice to Tenant (after termination of tenancy) stating a deduction of $1700 is being charged against the security deposit for damages, leaving a balance of $0.
Is he entitled to keep the security deposit after collecting nearly $17,000 extra over the years for the "added wear and tear of a large family"? I actually have no idea how much the security deposit is, since I did not find the lease among my husband's papers. Wouldn't the deposit cover unpaid rent or utilities on move out, which there are none owed?

