Baltimore Landlord Laws: A Straight‑Forward Guide for Property Owners

If you own rental units in Baltimore, you need to know the rules that keep tenants safe and keep you out of court. Maryland’s landlord‑tenant statutes apply statewide, but Baltimore adds a few city‑specific twists. Below you’ll find the most common requirements, the real‑world steps you should take, and the mistakes that bite landlords every year.

Key Rules Every Baltimore Landlord Has to Follow

1. Written Lease is a Must. While oral agreements can be legal, a written lease protects both sides. Baltimore law requires the lease to list the rent amount, payment schedule, security deposit limits (no more than two months’ rent), and any fees. Keep a copy for at least three years after the tenancy ends.

2. Security Deposit Limits. You can ask for up to two months’ rent as a deposit, but you must return it within 45 days after the tenant moves out, minus any lawful deductions. Provide an itemized list of damages if you withhold any money.

3. Notice Before Entry. Landlords may enter a unit for repairs, inspections, or to show the property, but you must give at least 24‑hour written notice unless there’s an emergency (like a burst pipe). The entry must be at a reasonable time, generally between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.

4. Rent Increase Rules. Baltimore does not have a citywide rent‑control ordinance, but you still need to follow state notice periods. For a month‑to‑month tenancy, give a 30‑day written notice. For a fixed‑term lease, you can only raise rent when the lease expires, unless the lease itself includes an escalation clause.

5. Eviction Process. You cannot lock out a tenant or shut off utilities to force them out. Follow the formal “notice to cure” or “notice to quit” depending on the breach, then file a petition in the District Court. Baltimore courts handle most residential evictions, and the process typically takes 30‑45 days.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Skipping the Lead‑Paint Disclosure. Any building built before 1978 must have a lead‑based paint disclosure. Forgetting it can lead to hefty fines and give tenants a legal right to break the lease.

Improper Handling of Security Deposits. Holding the deposit in a separate, interest‑bearing account is not required in Maryland, but you must provide a written receipt and a clear statement of where the money is kept. Failure to do so can cause disputes and may be deemed an unlawful withholding of funds.

Ignoring Local Housing Codes. Baltimore’s Code Enforcement Division inspects rental units for heat, hot water, pest control, and safety features like smoke detectors. Keep a maintenance log and address repairs within a reasonable time frame—usually 48‑72 hours for health‑related issues.

Not Updating Lease Terms After Legal Changes. Maryland periodically updates its landlord‑tenant statutes (for example, the 2024 updates on security deposits and eviction notices). Review your lease template each year and adjust language accordingly.

By keeping these rules in mind and treating tenants with respect, you’ll reduce legal headaches and keep your properties profitable. If you’re unsure about a specific situation, a quick call to a local attorney or a visit to the Baltimore city website can save you time and money down the road.

Ready to put these tips into action? Start by reviewing your current leases, updating your notice templates, and setting a calendar reminder for any upcoming legal changes. A well‑organized approach not only protects you legally but also builds trust with your renters—something that pays off in lower turnover and fewer vacancies.