Landlord Regulations: What Every Landlord and Tenant Should Know

Whether you own a single‑family home or manage multiple units, staying on top of landlord regulations saves money and avoids disputes. Below you’ll find the most common rules that affect rent hikes, lease types, property showings, and state‑specific quirks. Think of this as a cheat‑sheet you can refer to whenever a question pops up.

How Much Can You Raise Rent?

Most places let landlords increase rent once a year, but the amount is often capped. In Maryland, for example, there’s no statewide rent control, yet Baltimore City imposes a limit based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI). That means a landlord can’t just add 10% out of thin air; the raise must follow the CPI ceiling, usually around 3‑4%.

Virginia doesn’t have rent caps either, but localities may set their own rules. Always check city ordinances before sending a notice. A written notice is required in most states—typically 30 days for a one‑year lease and 60 days if the tenant has lived there for more than a year.

For rental properties covered by Section 8, the government sets a maximum payment based on fair market rent. Landlords can charge tenants the difference, but the amount can’t exceed the local rent limit.

Month‑to‑Month and Lease Basics

A month‑to‑month contract offers flexibility for both parties, but it also comes with rules. In most states, either side can end the agreement with a 30‑day written notice. Virginia requires a 30‑day notice unless the lease says otherwise. Maryland and Maryland‑specific jurisdictions follow the same timeline, but some cities may ask for 60 days.

If you’re switching from a fixed‑term lease to month‑to‑month, make sure the rent amount is clearly stated. Some landlords think they can increase rent immediately; the law says you must give the same notice period as you would for ending a lease.

When it comes to showing a rented house, landlords need to give reasonable notice—usually 24‑48 hours. Maryland law says “reasonable” means enough time for the tenant to prepare, and the landlord can’t show the property at odd hours. In Virginia, the same notice applies, and the landlord must have a legitimate reason, like finding a new tenant or doing repairs.

What you can’t do as a landlord includes entering the unit without notice, changing lock codes unannounced, or shutting off utilities to force a move‑out. Those actions can lead to hefty fines and legal battles.

Quick checklist for landlords:

• Write every rent increase notice and give the required days in advance.
• Document all communication with tenants—email works well.
• Know your local rent‑increase caps and CPI limits.
• Provide at least 24‑hour notice before any property showing.
• Follow state‑specific rules for month‑to‑month termination notices.

For tenants, the best move is to read the lease carefully, keep copies of all notices, and know your city’s rent‑increase limits. If a landlord ignores the rules, you can file a complaint with the local housing authority or seek small‑claims court.

Staying informed about landlord regulations helps both sides avoid surprise costs and legal headaches. Keep this guide handy, and you’ll be ready for any rental question that comes your way.