Ending a Sublease on an Inherited Property With an Uncooperative Tenant
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Reviewed & verified by A. Jason Velez, Esq.*
Managing Attorney, 1LAW · Last reviewed January 5, 2026
Legal Inquiry
Consumer Legal Issue
Inherited a house and there was a sublease that we want ended.
This person has made it difficult for us to perform an inspection on the house.
Attorney Answer
Because the sublease and lease documents themselves haven't been provided, the safest way to end this is to treat the tenancy as month-to-month and serve at least 30 days' written notice to terminate, while documenting the inspection refusal in case the case ends up in court.
Under Michigan Compiled Laws § 554.134, either the landlord or the tenant may terminate a month-to-month tenancy by giving the other party at least one month's notice. As the heir, you generally step into the prior landlord's position, and the subtenant's rights are typically derivative of — and no broader than — the original tenant's lease, which affects who must receive notice and on what terms. Without the actual lease and sublease documents, any specific term length, renewal clause, or early-termination provision remains unconfirmed, so those documents should be located and reviewed rather than assuming a month-to-month tenancy applies by default.
What you can do:
1. Locate and review the original lease and sublease to confirm the tenancy type and any termination clauses before proceeding.
2. If no controlling written term applies, serve written notice of at least 30 days to end the tenancy.
3. Send separate written notice of intent to enter for inspection, and keep dated records of any refusal or interference.
4. Consult a local attorney to confirm who must be given notice and the next steps if the occupant doesn't vacate after the notice period ends.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can an heir end a sublease after inheriting a property?
Generally, an heir steps into the prior landlord's position and can terminate a month-to-month tenancy with proper written notice, though existing written lease terms may control instead.
How much notice is generally required to end a month-to-month tenancy?
Many states require at least 30 days' written notice, though this can vary depending on state law and any lease terms in place.
What can be done if an occupant refuses to allow a property inspection?
Documenting the refusal and providing separate written notice of intent to enter is generally advisable, and a local attorney can advise on further remedies if access is repeatedly denied.
