Maryland Landlord-Tenant Law

In recent years, Maryland had the highest gross rental yields, which makes it a great state for landlords to invest in new rental properties. Maryland also has high foreclosure rates, which makes it easier for property investors to pick up nice properties for cheap. For our recommendations on exactly where to invest in this state, take a look at our Maryland rental investment report – read below for guidance on Maryland landlord-tenant law.

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Laws that impact the rental market, landlords, and tenants are constantly being decided in states. Make sure you know what’s on your ballot – find Maryland voting information here.

Maryland Renters' Rights and Landlord Responsibilities

  • Have 45 days to return security deposit
  • No notice required before raising rent
  • No notice required before entering the property
  • Required to make repairs within 30 days

When it comes to Maryland rental laws, there are a few specifics landlords need to know:

  1. Security Deposit – Maryland limits the amount a landlord may charge for the security deposit to the equivalent of two months’ rent. Landlords must return the deposit within 45 days of the tenant moving out.
  2. Raising Rent – Landlords in Maryland may increase the rent to any amount for any reason with no notice.
  3. Notice of Entry – Maryland does not require notice from the landlord before entering.
  4. Repairs – It is the landlord’s responsibility to keep the rental in safe and healthy living conditions. Landlords must make repairs within 30 days after being notified by the tenant. If the landlord fails to make these repairs, the tenant may pay for the repairs and deduct the cost from their next rent payment.
  5. Rental Applications (Montgomery County only) – Landlords are prohibited to asking certain inquiries regarding criminal histories in rental housing applications.

Maryland Landlords' Rights and Tenant Responsibilities

  • Required to issue a 14-day notice before filing for eviction
  • Must give a three-month notice before terminating a lease
  • Tenants must keep the unit in safe and habitable condition
  1. Overdue Rent – If a tenant fails to pay rent on time, the landlord must issue a notice that gives the tenant 14 days to pay. If the tenant still doesn’t pay, the landlord may file for eviction.
  2. Terminating a Lease – If a tenant needs to terminate a year-to-year lease, they must give the landlord a three-month notice.
  3. Tenant Responsibilities – Tenants are required to keep the property clean and not disturb neighbors.

Maryland Landlord-Tenant Law FAQ

Below are answers to some of the most commonly-asked questions when it comes to landlord-tenant laws in Maryland:

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Can You Withhold Rent in Maryland?

If a landlord fails to make necessary repairs, the tenant may pay for those repairs and deduct the price from their next rent payment.

How Long Does it Take to Evict a Tenant in Maryland?

Evicting a tenant in Maryland can take anywhere from three weeks to five months depending on the reason for eviction. 

Is Maryland a Landlord-Friendly State?

Maryland is a very landlord-friendly state because of the lack of rent control law.

What is the Eviction Process in Maryland?

There are three reasons a landlord may file for eviction in Maryland. The three reasons include failing to pay rent, violation of the lease agreement, and the end of the lease term. Depending on the violation, the landlord may either file for eviction immediately or give them a notice to quit. 

If the tenant fails to cure or quit, then the landlord may file a complaint with the court, which costs $15. After the complaint is filed, it will be served to the tenant within a few days. 

The hearing will then be scheduled within 5 to 10 business days after the complaint was filed.

If the court rules in favor of the landlord, then a writ of restitution will be issued within a few hours to four days. Once received, the tenant will need to move out within 60 days. 

How Much Notice Does a Landlord Have to Give a Tenant to Move Out in Maryland?

Landlords are required to give one month’s notice before asking a tenant to vacate the property.

Due Diligence and Maryland Rental Laws

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TurboTenant has utilized many municipal sources, along with official state statutes, in order to compile this information to the best of our ability. However, local laws are always in flux, and landlords and tenants alike should do their due diligence and consult legal help when it’s needed. We hope the following list can serve as a valuable resource and allow you to succeed as a landlord or tenant in Maryland. Be sure to take proper precautions when it comes to finding the top candidates for your unit by utilizing our online rental application and tenant screening services.

Disclaimer: TurboTenant, Inc does not provide legal advice. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only. All users are advised to check all applicable local, state, and federal laws, and consult legal counsel should questions arise.

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Maryland Landlord-Tenant Law Resources

Maryland Fair Housing Resources

Other State Resources

Maryland Associations

Maryland City-Specific Housing Resources

Baltimore

Frederick

Rockville

Gaithersburg

Bowie

Hagerstown

Annapolis

College Park

Salisbury

Laurel

Takoma Park

Federal Fair Housing Resources

 

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