Maryland Residential Landlord-Tenant Laws: Complete Guide
Manage overview of Maryland rental laws including security deposit limits (2 months), the 5% late fee cap, eviction notices, and required disclosures.
Legal Disclaimer
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. Laws change frequently — always verify current regulations and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice specific to your situation. Landager is a property management platform, not a law firm.Information last verified: May 2026.
Maryland residential tenancies are governed primarily by the Real Property Article of the Maryland Code (effective July 1, 1974). Maryland law provides strong protections for tenants regarding security deposits, late fees, and eviction procedures, while also allowing some local jurisdictions (like Montgomery County) to enact stricter rent stabilization rules. Recent updates in 2024 and 2025 have significantly expanded tenant protections regarding security deposit limits, eviction notices, and landlord entry.
Key Maryland Rental Laws at a Glance
Security Deposits
Maryland has strict requirements for security deposits. For leases signed on or after October 1, 2024, landlords can charge a maximum of one month's rent. A two-month limit applies only if the tenant qualifies for utility assistance and agrees to the higher amount in writing. The deposit must be kept in a separate, interest-bearing account in a Maryland financial institution.
If the deposit is greater than $50 and held for more than 6 months, it must accrue interest at a rate that is the greater of the US Treasury yield curve rate or 1.5%. Landlords have 45 days after the termination of the tenancy to return the deposit with an itemized statement of any deductions.
For more detail, see our Security Deposits deep dive.
Eviction Procedures
Self-help evictions (like changing locks or shutting off utilities) are entirely illegal in Maryland. Landlords must go through the District Court.
- Unpaid Rent: Landlords MUST provide a 10-day written notice of intent to file a "Failure to Pay Rent" action. The landlord cannot file in court until the 10-day cure period has expired.
- Warrant of Restitution: Effective October 1, 2025, landlords must provide a 6-day notice to the tenant before an eviction warrant is executed.
- Lease Violations: A 30-day notice is generally required for standard lease breaches, though severe breaches involving danger or criminal activity only require a 14-day notice.
For more detail, see our Eviction Process guide.
Rent Increases and Rent Control
Maryland does not have a statewide rent control law. However, localities like Montgomery County, Takoma Park, and Prince George's County have implemented rent stabilization measures.
Statewide, landlords must provide at least 90 days' written notice before increasing rent for all tenancies with a term longer than one month. This notice must be sent via first-class mail with a certificate of mailing (or electronically if the tenant has opted-in).
For more detail, see our Rent Increases guide.
Required Disclosures (Unique to MD)
- Tenants' Bill of Rights: Landlords must provide a copy of the Maryland Tenants' Bill of Rights as an addendum to every new lease or renewal (effective Oct 1, 2024).
- Security Deposit Receipt: A written receipt for the security deposit must be provided, often included within the written lease (MD Real Prop Code § 8-203.1).
- Landlord Entry: Effective October 1, 2025, landlords must provide at least 24 hours' written notice before entering the premises, except in cases of emergency (MD Real Prop Code § 8-221).
- Condition of Premises: A statement that the premises will be made available in a condition permitting habitation with reasonable safety (MD Real Prop Code § 8-208).
- Owner Identity: Name and address of the owner and property manager.
Late Fees
Maryland strictly regulates late fees. Effective October 1, 2025, a landlord cannot charge a late fee that exceeds 5% of the unpaid rent balance. It is no longer legal to charge 5% of the total monthly rent if a partial payment has been made. Furthermore, there is no statewide statutory grace period; fees may be assessed immediately after the due date if specified in the written lease.
For more detail, see our Late Fees guide.
Local Ordinances Matter
In Maryland, local laws often take precedence if they offer more protection to the tenant. Landlords operating in Baltimore City, Montgomery County, Prince George's County, or Howard County must ensure their leases comply with both state statutes and local housing codes.
Explore more Maryland compliance topics:
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Sources & Official References
Frequently Asked Questions
▶What are the Maryland landlord-tenant laws every property owner should know?
Maryland residential tenancies are governed primarily by the Real Property Article of the Maryland Code. Maryland law provides strong protections for tenants regarding security deposits, late fees, and eviction procedures, while also allowing some local jurisdictions (like Montgomery County) to enact stricter rent stabilization rules. This guide covers the essential compliance requirements for property owners and landlords.
▶What is the Maryland eviction process and how long does it take?
The Maryland eviction process requires landlords to provide written notice to tenants before filing a court action. The type and length of notice depends on the reason for eviction — typically shorter for non-payment of rent and longer for lease violations or no-fault terminations. Self-help evictions (changing locks, removing belongings, shutting off utilities) are illegal in Maryland. The full court process varies but typically takes several weeks.
Read the complete guide▶What are the Maryland security deposit rules and return deadlines?
Maryland has specific rules governing how much landlords can charge for security deposits, how deposits must be held, and the deadline for returning deposits after a tenant moves out. Landlords must provide an itemized statement of any deductions made from the deposit. Failure to comply with deposit return deadlines can result in penalties and the forfeiture of the landlord's right to claim deductions.
Read the complete guide▶What are the Maryland rent increase laws and caps for landlords?
Maryland has specific rules governing when and how landlords can increase rent. During a fixed-term lease, rent generally cannot be increased unless the lease explicitly allows it. For month-to-month tenancies, landlords must provide proper written notice before an increase takes effect. Check whether Maryland has any local rent control ordinances that may impose additional caps or requirements.
Read the complete guide▶What is the grace period for late rent in Maryland?
Maryland has specific rules regarding grace periods for late rent and the amount that can be charged as a late fee. Late fee provisions must be stated in the lease agreement, and fees must be reasonable. Check Maryland state law and any applicable local ordinances for the exact grace period and late fee limits that apply to your rental property.
Read the complete guide▶What disclosures must Maryland landlords provide to tenants?
Maryland landlords must provide certain disclosures to tenants before or at the time of lease signing. Common required disclosures include lead-based paint hazards (for pre-1978 buildings, a federal requirement), the identity of the landlord or property manager, and any known material defects in the property. Additional state-specific disclosures may include flood risk, mold hazards, and environmental conditions.
Read the complete guide▶What are the Maryland lease requirements for rental properties?
Maryland recognizes both written and oral leases, though written leases are strongly recommended for terms longer than one year. Lease agreements should include the rent amount, payment due date, security deposit terms, maintenance responsibilities, and rules regarding entry, pets, and subletting. Certain lease clauses that waive tenant statutory rights may be void and unenforceable under Maryland law.
Read the complete guide▶What are Maryland landlord maintenance obligations and habitability standards?
Maryland landlords must maintain rental properties in a condition that is fit for habitation and complies with applicable building, housing, and health codes. This includes maintaining structural integrity, plumbing, heating and cooling systems, electrical systems, and pest control. Tenants typically have the right to request repairs in writing, and if repairs are not made within a reasonable time, tenants may have legal remedies available.
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