Maryland Landlord‑Tenant Law: What Tenants and Landlords Must Know

When dealing with Maryland landlord tenant law, the body of statutes and regulations that govern the relationship between renters and property owners in Maryland. Also known as MD landlord‑tenant code, it defines rights, duties, and procedures for both parties.

One of the most frequent questions concerns landlord entry, the circumstances under which a landlord may access a rented unit. Under the law, a landlord must give at least 24‑hour written notice before entering for non‑emergency reasons, such as repairs or inspections. The notice must state the date, time, and purpose of entry. In emergencies—like a burst pipe or fire—the notice requirement is waived, but the landlord still needs to act reasonably. Violating these rules can lead to tenant complaints, civil penalties, or even a breach‑of‑contract claim. Understanding this requirement helps both sides avoid costly disputes and keeps the rental experience smooth.

Equally important are tenant rights, the protections afforded to renters under Maryland law. Tenants have the right to a habitable dwelling, which means landlords must address health‑ and safety‑related repairs within a reasonable time. If a landlord fails to act, tenants can withhold rent, repair and deduct, or file a complaint with the local housing authority. Tenant rights also shape the eviction process: a landlord must provide a written notice—usually 30 days for a no‑cause termination or a 10‑day notice for non‑payment—before filing an eviction lawsuit. Knowing these rights empowers renters to protect their homes and helps landlords follow proper procedures.

Key Areas Covered by Maryland Law

Another core piece of the puzzle is rental requirements, the documents and financial checks landlords must collect before signing a lease. Prospective tenants need to submit a completed application, proof of income (typically two months’ pay stubs), a credit report, and references from previous landlords. Maryland also mandates that landlords disclose the presence of lead‑based paint in units built before 1978. Security deposits are limited to two months’ rent for most residential leases, and the landlord must return the deposit within 45 days of lease termination, minus any lawful deductions. These requirements aim to create transparency and protect both parties from unexpected surprises.

Security deposits tie directly into the broader dispute‑resolution framework. If a tenant and landlord disagree over deductions—say, for alleged damage—either party can request mediation through the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development. Should mediation fail, the case proceeds to the district court, where the judge reviews the lease, move‑out inspection report, and any receipts. Having clear documentation from the start—like a move‑in checklist—greatly improves the chances of a fair outcome.

Finally, the law touches on rent‑increase limits and lease renewal notices. While Maryland does not impose a statewide rent control, many counties require landlords to give at least 60 days’ notice before raising rent for month‑to‑month tenants. For fixed‑term leases, any rent adjustment must be included in the original agreement or agreed upon in writing before the new term begins. This rule ensures tenants have adequate time to budget or seek alternative housing.

All these pieces—notice requirements, entry rules, tenant protections, and financial disclosures—interact to form a comprehensive system that balances the interests of renters and property owners. Maryland landlord tenant law therefore serves as both a safeguard and a roadmap for everyday rental situations. Below you’ll find a curated collection of articles that dive deeper into each of these topics, offering step‑by‑step guides, checklists, and real‑world examples to help you stay compliant and confident in any rental scenario.