Maryland Residential Landlord-Tenant Laws: Complete Guide
Comprehensive 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.
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.
Disclaimer: This guide provides general legal information for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Local county and city ordinances (e.g., Baltimore City, Montgomery County) often impose additional requirements. Always consult a Maryland real estate attorney. Information last verified: March 2026.
Key Maryland Rental Laws at a Glance
| Topic | Key Rule | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Security Deposit Limit | Max 2 months' rent (unfurnished) | MD Real Prop Code § 8-203 |
| Security Deposit Return | Within 45 days | MD Real Prop Code § 8-203 |
| Late Fee Cap | Max 5% of monthly rent | MD Real Prop Code § 8-208 |
| Late Fee Grace Period | 15 days mandatory | MD Real Prop Code § 8-208 |
| Eviction (Unpaid Rent) | 10-day Notice to Pay or Quit | MD Real Prop Code § 8-401 |
| Eviction (Lease Violation) | 30-day Notice to Quit | MD Real Prop Code § 8-402.1 |
| Rent Increase Notice | 90 days (1+ year lease), 60 days (month-to-month) | MD Real Prop Code § 8-209 |
| Rent Control | No statewide limit (local ordinances apply) | Varies by jurisdiction |
Security Deposits
Maryland has strict requirements for security deposits. Landlords can charge a maximum of two months' rent for an unfurnished unit. 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. Landlords have 45 days after the tenant moves out 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 serve a 10-day written notice to pay or quit before filing an eviction lawsuit (Failure to Pay Rent action).
- 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 robust rent stabilization measures.
Statewide, landlords must provide ample notice before raising rent: 90 days for leases of one year or more, and 60 days for month-to-month agreements.
For more detail, see our Rent Increases guide.
Late Fees
Maryland strictly regulates late fees. A landlord cannot charge a late fee that exceeds 5% of the monthly rent. Furthermore, the state enforces a mandatory 15-day grace period—meaning a late fee cannot be legally assessed until the rent is 16 days past due.
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:
Sources & Official References
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