Renting in Maryland: What You Need to Know Right Now

If you’re hunting for an apartment or house in Maryland, you’ve probably heard bits about landlord‑tenant law, rent caps in Baltimore, and security‑deposit quirks. The good news? All that legal mumbo‑jumbo boils down to a few clear rules you can follow to protect yourself and keep your rent affordable.

Key Maryland Rental Rules You Can’t Ignore

Maryland’s 2024 landlord‑tenant law update tightened up eviction procedures, required 30‑day written notice for most lease changes, and clarified how security deposits must be handled. Landlords now have to keep deposits in a separate, interest‑bearing account and return them within 45 days after you move out, unless they have a legitimate, written reason to keep part of it.

Another big change is the “good cause” eviction rule in several counties, meaning a landlord can’t just kick you out for no reason. They need to prove you violated the lease, failed to pay rent, or the property is being sold. Knowing this helps you spot illegal eviction attempts early.

Practical Tips for Tenants in Maryland

First, always ask for a written lease. Even if you’re on a month‑to‑month agreement, the terms should be in black and white. Maryland allows month‑to‑month contracts, but the landlord must give you at least 30 days’ notice before ending the tenancy.

If you’re renting in Baltimore, pay special attention to the local rent‑increase limit. Baltimore City caps annual rent hikes at 3% plus inflation, so a sudden 10% jump is a red flag. You can file a complaint with the city's Office of Housing if the increase exceeds the legal limit.

When it comes to security deposits, demand a receipt that lists the account where the money is held. If you notice any deductions on the move‑out statement, ask for an itemized list and compare it to your lease to see if the landlord is acting within the law.Looking for ways to save on rent? Consider neighborhoods a short drive or bus ride from downtown. Areas like Towson, Columbia, or parts of Frederick often have lower rates while still offering solid transit options. Also, ask if the landlord is willing to waive broker fees—many owners will, especially if you’re a direct applicant.

Finally, keep records of all communications. Emails, texts, and written notices create a paper trail that can protect you if a dispute ends up in court. Having a clear log of rent payments, repair requests, and landlord replies makes it harder for anyone to claim otherwise.

Ready to start your search? Use local rental platforms, check community boards, and don’t forget to read recent tenant reviews. Knowing the rules, watching for illegal rent hikes, and staying organized will give you confidence as you sign that lease.