Michigan Contractor Dispute Demand Letter
M.C.L. § 339.2401 et seq.
Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA)
14 days
A contractor dispute — whether the work was abandoned, never finished, or so defective it needs to be torn out and redone — is one of the most stressful situations a homeowner can face. Michigan law provides real recourse. Under M.C.L. § 339.2401 et seq., contractors are licensed and regulated by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), and there are formal mechanisms to hold them accountable.
The most important thing you can do right now is get your dispute in writing. Michigan law recognizes a right-to-cure process — giving the contractor 14 days to address the defects before you pursue other remedies. A formal demand letter starts that clock. A demand letter documents exactly what was promised, what went wrong, what you've already paid, and what you're demanding — whether that's a refund, completion of work, or payment for the cost to hire a replacement contractor.
DemandFast generates a Michigan-specific contractor demand letter that cites M.C.L. § 339.2401 et seq., references the contractor's licensing obligations under Michigan law, and formally demands remedy within a specified timeframe. The letter is formatted for certified mail so you have proof of delivery. If your contractor ignores it, you have a complete paper trail ready for a licensing board complaint or small claims court.
File complaint with Michigan LARA; residential builders and maintenance contractors must be licensed. Licensing board complaints carry real consequences for contractors — loss of license, fines, and a public record of the complaint. Many contractors respond to a demand letter precisely to avoid that outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
What law governs contractor disputes in Michigan?
Michigan contractor work is regulated under M.C.L. § 339.2401 et seq.. Contractors must be licensed through the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). Unlicensed work may void the contractor's right to payment and give you additional remedies.
Do I need to give my contractor a chance to fix the work in Michigan?
Michigan law recognizes a right-to-cure period, and best practice is to give the contractor 14 days to remedy the defect before pursuing other remedies. A formal written demand letter starts that clock and creates a paper trail.
How do I file a complaint against a contractor in Michigan?
File complaint with Michigan LARA; residential builders and maintenance contractors must be licensed. A formal demand letter often resolves disputes without a complaint — but if your contractor ignores it, you have documented evidence to support your filing.