Legal Rights: What Tenants and Landlords Need to Know

Finding out what you can and cannot do in a rental can feel like reading a legal textbook. The good news is most rules are simple once you hear them in plain English. Below we break down the most common rights you’ll run into, from rent hikes to month‑to‑month leases, so you can act with confidence.

Rent Increases – How Much is Legal?

If your landlord tells you the rent is going up, the first thing to check is whether there’s a limit. In many places, like Baltimore City, the law caps annual raises at a set percentage. Other areas have no cap but require proper notice—usually 30 days for a month‑to‑month lease or 60 days for a yearly lease. Ignoring the notice period can give you a solid defense if the increase feels unfair.

Also watch out for “rent control” zones. In those neighborhoods, the city decides the maximum amount a landlord can raise each year. If you’re not sure whether your building falls under rent control, a quick call to the local housing office will clear it up.

Month‑to‑Month Leases and Your Flexibility

Month‑to‑month agreements sound flexible, and they are—until someone decides to end the tenancy. Most states require a 30‑day notice from either party, but Virginia, for example, may need a 60‑day notice if you’ve lived there over a year. Knowing the exact notice period helps you plan your move or negotiate a longer lease if you prefer stability.

Landlords can’t just walk in and show the place without warning. In Maryland, they need to give reasonable notice, typically 24 hours, before entering for repairs or showings. If they skip this step, you have the right to refuse entry and even seek compensation for any breach of privacy.

On the flip side, landlords also have rights they must follow. They can’t evict you without a court order, and they can’t change lease terms or increase rent without following the notice rules. If a landlord tries to do something outside the law—like charging extra fees that aren’t in the lease—you can challenge it in small‑claims court.

Security deposits are another hot spot. Most states limit the deposit to one or two months’ rent and require a written receipt. When you move out, the landlord must give an itemized list of any deductions within a set timeframe, usually 30 days. If they keep money without a valid reason, you can demand its return and may be entitled to penalties.

Don’t forget habitability rights. Landlords must keep the unit livable—working plumbing, heat, electricity, and a safe structure. If repairs are needed, notify them in writing and give a reasonable time to act. If they ignore the request, you may withhold rent or repair yourself and deduct the cost, but follow your state’s exact procedure to stay protected.

Knowing these basics saves you time, money, and stress. If a dispute pops up, start by writing down dates, notices, and any communication. Most issues can be settled by showing the other side the rules, and many landlords prefer an easy resolution over a legal battle.

Remember, every state has its own twists, so always double‑check the local statutes or talk to a tenant‑rights group. Armed with the right info, you’ll know exactly when you can push back, when you need to comply, and how to protect your home.