Key Takeaways
Understanding rights and responsibilities is essential. Maryland law clearly defines what landlords and tenants can and cannot do, covering everything from security deposits and habitability to privacy and eviction procedures.
Proper disclosures and documentation prevent disputes. Landlords must provide clear written information about fees, deposits, move-in conditions, and known hazards, while tenants should document repairs, payments, and notices to protect their rights.
Professional guidance reduces risk. Working with a qualified attorney or a property management company like PMI Chevy Chase helps landlords stay compliant, handle legal requirements efficiently, and protect both their investment and tenant relationships.
Are you a landlord looking to protect your investment, or a tenant wanting to safeguard your home? Either way, knowing Maryland landlord-tenant rules is essential.
The state sets clear responsibilities for property owners while giving renters important protections, especially around safety, privacy, and security deposits.
PMI Chevy Chase created this article to explain Maryland’s landlord-tenant rules in simple, practical terms, with tips you can actually use in everyday rental situations.
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Required Landlord Disclosures in Maryland
Maryland law requires landlords to provide certain disclosures to tenants before or at the start of a tenancy. These disclosures must be clear and in writing.
Nonrefundable Fees
Landlords must clearly list all deposits and any nonrefundable fees in writing. The lease or rental agreement must explain what each fee is for and whether it can be returned. Surprise fees are not allowed.
Security Deposit
Maryland treats all security deposits, including pet or other charges, as a single security deposit.
Landlords must provide written notice within 14 days of move-in with the bank or surety holding the deposit, their contact information, and the tenant’s obligation to give a forwarding address after moving out.
Deposits may cover unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear, and cleaning costs. They are capped at two months’ rent and must be returned within 45 days with an itemized list of deductions. Proper handling prevents disputes and ensures compliance with Maryland law.
Rights of Domestic Violence Victims
A lease may include language explaining that tenants and their children have special rights under Maryland law to end a lease early if they face imminent danger from domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking.
Truth in Renting Act
Rental agreements must include a notice explaining the rights and responsibilities of landlords and tenants. The notice must be easy to read and printed clearly in the lease or posted prominently.
Owner or Agent Identity
The lease must state the name and address where tenants can deliver notices or legal communications to the landlord or authorized agent.
Move-In Checklist
Landlords must provide tenants with a move-in inspection checklist. This allows renters to note existing damage and helps prevent deposit disputes later.
Maryland Tenant Rights and Responsibilities
Tenant Rights in Maryland
Tenants in Maryland have the right to remain in their rental unit unless the landlord follows the proper legal eviction process. They are entitled to timely repairs once they notify the landlord in writing.
Tenants must receive notice before changes are made to lease terms. They have the right to written receipts for rent or deposits when requested. Maryland renters are also entitled to privacy, quiet enjoyment, and a safe and sanitary living space.
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Tenant Responsibilities in Maryland
Tenants must give proper notice before moving out, usually 30 days for month-to-month rentals.
They must follow all lease terms, keep noise at reasonable levels, report repair needs in writing, care for the property, notify the landlord if they will be away for an extended period, and pay rent on time.
Maryland Landlord Rights and Responsibilities
Landlord Rights in Maryland
Landlords have the right to receive proper notice from month-to-month tenants before move-out.
They can require tenants to follow the lease terms and submit repair requests in writing and on time. Landlords may also require tenants to notify them if the unit will be vacant for long periods.
Landlord Responsibilities in Maryland
Landlords must follow the legal eviction process set by Maryland law. They must:
Honor the lease agreement.
Give proper notice for changes in month-to-month rentals.
Respect tenant privacy.
Provide reasonable notice before entering a unit except in emergencies.
Handle repairs promptly.
Follow all applicable health and building codes.
An Overview of Maryland Landlord-Tenant Laws
Tenant Privacy and Landlord Right to Enter
A landlord may enter a rental unit only for valid reasons, including emergencies, court orders, abandoned units, agreed repairs, necessary maintenance, or showing the property to buyers or future tenants.
Entry must occur during reasonable hours, and tenants must be notified in advance unless there is an emergency.
Condition, Maintenance, and Repairs
Maryland landlords must keep rental units habitable. A habitable unit includes:
Working locks.
Safe floors and railings.
Proper trash storage.
Clean and pest-free conditions at move-in.
Functioning electrical and heating systems.
Safe plumbing.
Reliable hot and cold water.
Effective weather protection for roofs, walls, and windows.
Maryland Housing Discrimination Laws
Maryland law prohibits housing discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, familial status, marital status, age, ancestry, sexual orientation, gender identity, source of income, or medical condition. These protections go beyond federal law and apply statewide.
Required Landlord Disclosures
Landlords must disclose known lead paint hazards in older properties, the presence of shared utility meters, and the landlord or agent contact information.
Smoking policies must be stated in the lease if smoking is limited or prohibited. Any known mold conditions that pose a health risk must also be disclosed before lease signing.
Renters’ Right to Withhold Rent
If a landlord fails to fix serious habitability issues after written notice, tenants may be able to place rent into escrow with the court.
This is not automatic and must follow strict procedures. Tenants may also contact local housing inspectors or pursue legal action. Withholding rent without following the law can lead to eviction.
Small Claims Lawsuits in Maryland
Tenants may sue landlords in Maryland small claims court over security deposit disputes. Claims can be filed for amounts up to $5,000. This process is commonly used when deposits are wrongfully withheld.
Conclusion
Maryland landlord-tenant law is detailed and unforgiving. Mistakes can cost time, money, and peace of mind. Property owners who try to manage rentals on their own often find themselves overwhelmed by notices, deadlines, and compliance rules.
Hiring a qualified Maryland attorney is always a good idea, but working with an experienced property management company like PMI Chevy Chase can make compliance easier, reduce risk, and keep rental properties running smoothly.
Disclaimer: This blog should not be used as a substitute for legal advice from a licensed attorney in your state. Laws frequently change, and this post might not be updated at the time of your reading. Please contact us for any questions you have regarding this content or any other aspect of your property management needs.
