Detroit evictions now turn on one document.

We want every Detroit landlord to know about a development that is changing how landlord-tenant cases move through the 36th District Court.

The City of Detroit’s rental ordinance makes it unlawful to collect rent or obtain a nonpayment eviction judgment for any period a rental property lacked a current Rental Registration and a valid Certificate of Compliance. The 36th District Court has reaffirmed it will enforce that rule, and in 2026 enforcement is tightening. Landlords are increasingly being asked to produce a valid Certificate of Compliance for a case to move forward, and tenants’ attorneys are raising the absence of one as a defense.

How it plays out in court

1. No certificate at the hearing. If you can’t produce a valid Certificate of Compliance, expect the court to adjourn the matter roughly 30 days so you can obtain one.
2. You get the certificate. If you secure a valid certificate, the court may let the case proceed — and may order the tenant to pay rent into an escrow account while it’s pending.
3. You still can’t produce one. The case may stall and, in some instances, be dismissed — sending you back to the start.

Why this matters now

By the City’s own figures, only about 14% of Detroit rentals currently hold a valid Certificate of Compliance. Tenant advocates are pressing the court to verify compliance before entering any judgment for rent or possession — which makes it more likely than ever that this surfaces in your case, whether you raise it or not.

The fix is simple and it’s in your control: review the compliance status of every Detroit property you own, and clear any open inspection, registration, or certification issues before an eviction becomes necessary. Compliance handled in advance is the most reliable way to protect your timeline and your right to collect.

How we handle it

We don’t run the City’s inspection, rental registration, or Certificate of Compliance process for you. What we do: when you file a Detroit matter through GetMyMoney.com, we collect proof of ownership and your Certificate of Compliance (or renter’s license) up front, and we advise on eviction strategy and timing around these requirements so nothing catches you by surprise at the hearing. We’re also watching the 36th District Court closely and will update this page as things develop.