Tenant Laws Maryland – What Every Renter Should Know

Ever wondered what the law says when you rent a place in Maryland? You’re not alone. The rules can feel confusing, but they’re actually pretty straightforward once you break them down. Below you’ll find the most important points that protect you as a tenant and keep landlords on their toes.

Key Tenant Rights in Maryland

First up, security deposits. Maryland caps the deposit at two months’ rent for a one‑year lease and three months’ rent for longer leases. The landlord must give you a written receipt and return the deposit within 45 days after you move out, minus any lawful deductions.

When it comes to notice, you usually need a 30‑day written notice to end a month‑to‑month tenancy. If you have a fixed‑term lease, you must stay until the lease ends unless both parties agree to end it early. Breaking a lease early can cost you, but Maryland law does allow early termination for reasons like domestic violence or active military duty.

Evictions are another hot topic. A landlord can’t just throw you out; they need a court order. The process starts with a written notice – 10 days for non‑payment of rent, 30 days for other lease violations. If you don’t fix the issue, the landlord files a lawsuit and you get a chance to appear in court.

Things Landlords Must Do

Landlord entry is tightly regulated. Except for emergencies, a landlord must give you at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering the unit. They can only enter at reasonable times, usually between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. This protects your privacy while letting the landlord do necessary repairs.

Habitability is a must. Maryland law requires landlords to keep the property safe and livable – that means working heat, water, electricity, and a structurally sound building. If something breaks, you should notify the landlord in writing. They have a reasonable time to fix it; if they don’t, you may have the right to withhold rent or repair it yourself and deduct the cost.

Another common question: can a landlord raise the rent whenever they want? In Maryland, rent increases are allowed at the end of a lease term or with proper notice during a month‑to‑month tenancy. The notice period matches the rental period – typically 30 days.

If you’re dealing with a roommate situation, each occupant is generally considered a tenant under the lease, so the landlord can hold each one responsible for the full rent. That’s why it’s smart to have a clear roommate agreement in place.

Finally, remember you have the right to a written lease. Even if you sign an oral agreement, ask for a copy of the lease terms in writing. It helps avoid misunderstandings and gives you a solid reference if a dispute arises.

Bottom line: Maryland tenant laws are designed to give you a fair living environment while balancing landlord responsibilities. Keep records of all communications, know your notice periods, and don’t hesitate to ask for help from a local housing agency if something feels off.