Maryland Rental Law: What Tenants and Landlords Need to Know

When you rent a home in Maryland rental law, the set of rules governing landlord-tenant relationships in the state of Maryland, including security deposits, rent increases, and eviction procedures. It's not just about signing a lease—it's about knowing what you can and can't do, and what the other side is legally required to follow. Unlike some states that cap rent increases, Maryland doesn’t have statewide rent control, but local rules in places like Baltimore and Montgomery County can add extra layers. That means your rights depend on where you live—and what’s written in your lease.

One of the most common issues? security deposit, a sum paid upfront by tenants to cover potential damages, with strict limits and return timelines under Maryland law. damage deposit is what many call it, but legally, it’s governed by strict rules: landlords can’t ask for more than two months’ rent, must return it within 45 days after you move out, and must give a written itemized list if they keep any part of it. Skip the paperwork? You could be owed triple the amount back. And if your landlord doesn’t provide a receipt for the deposit? That’s a violation too.

What about rent hikes? In most of Maryland, your landlord can raise rent when your lease ends—no notice required beyond what’s stated in the lease. But if you’re on a month-to-month tenancy, they must give you at least 30 days’ notice. And if they’re trying to push you out because you complained about repairs? That’s retaliation, and it’s illegal. Maryland law protects tenants who report code violations or request fixes. Landlords can’t lock you out, shut off utilities, or remove your belongings—even if you’re late on rent. They have to go through the court system.

Evictions are another big piece. You can’t be kicked out without a court order. Even if you miss rent, your landlord must file a complaint, serve you papers, and wait for a judge to decide. No self-help evictions. No changing locks. No threats. If they try, you can sue for damages. And if you’re facing eviction, you have the right to a hearing—don’t ignore the notice. Many tenants lose cases just because they don’t show up.

And don’t forget the basics: your rental must be habitable. That means working heat in winter, clean water, no pests, and no structural hazards. If something breaks, you have to notify your landlord in writing. If they ignore it for more than 30 days, you might have the right to withhold rent or fix it yourself and deduct the cost—under very specific conditions. It’s not a free pass to stop paying, but it’s a tool if you’re stuck.

For landlords, compliance isn’t optional. Failing to follow Maryland rental law can cost you more than a few hundred dollars in penalties—it can mean losing your property, facing lawsuits, or being barred from renting again. You need to know your duties: providing safe housing, returning deposits on time, and not discriminating under federal or state fair housing laws. It’s not just about money—it’s about fairness and legality.

What you’ll find below are real cases, real rules, and real answers to the questions renters and landlords face every day in Maryland. From how to handle a broken AC in July to what happens when a tenant moves out without notice, these posts cut through the noise. No fluff. No legalese. Just what you need to know to protect yourself—or your investment.