Maryland Property Laws: A Practical Guide for Renters and Landlords

If you’re looking for a place to rent or own a property in Maryland, you’ll quickly realize that the state’s rules can feel like a maze. The good news? Most of the key points are straightforward once you break them down. Below you’ll find the must‑know basics for both tenants and landlords, plus a few practical tips to keep the process smooth.

Key Rental Requirements in Maryland

First off, Maryland landlords can’t just hand you a lease and expect you to sign without checking a few boxes. You’ll need a credit check, proof of income (usually two months’ pay stubs), and a completed rental application. Many landlords also ask for a background check, which is legal as long as it’s applied consistently to all applicants. Expect a security deposit—typically one month’s rent—and be ready to provide the first month’s rent up front.

When the lease is drafted, it must include the rent amount, due date, and any late‑fee policy. Maryland law caps late fees at 5% of the monthly rent, so if you see a higher charge, you can challenge it. The lease should also spell out the landlord’s responsibilities for maintenance and repairs. If a landlord promises to fix a leak in writing, they’re legally bound to do it within a reasonable time.

Landlord Access and Showing Rules

One common worry is whether a landlord can walk into your home while you’re still living there. In Maryland, the answer is yes—*but* only with proper notice. The standard rule is 24‑hour written notice for non‑emergency entry, and the visit must be at a reasonable time (usually between 8 am and 8 pm). Emergencies like a burst pipe or fire are the exception and don’t require notice.

If a landlord wants to show the property to prospective tenants or buyers, they must still give you the 24‑hour notice and respect your privacy. You can negotiate a specific showing schedule in your lease to avoid surprises. If the landlord repeatedly ignores the notice rule, you can file a complaint with the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development.

Beyond entry rules, Maryland has clear guidelines on lease termination. For month‑to‑month rentals, either party can end the tenancy with a 30‑day written notice. Fixed‑term leases require the tenant to stay for the agreed period unless there’s a breach. Breaking a lease early without a legal reason can cost you the security deposit and possibly additional rent.

Another hot topic is pet policies. Maryland law doesn’t stop landlords from having a “no pets” rule, but if pets are allowed, the lease should list any extra pet deposit or monthly fee. Some cities, like Baltimore, have local ordinances that limit how much a landlord can charge for pets.

Finally, keep an eye on discrimination protections. Maryland’s Fair Housing Act mirrors the federal law, meaning landlords can’t discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or familial status. If you suspect bias, you can contact the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights.

Bottom line: read every clause, ask questions before you sign, and keep copies of all communications. Knowing these basics will help you avoid nasty surprises and make the rental experience in Maryland far less stressful.