2024 Maryland Housing Regulations: What Landlords and Tenants Need to Know

When it comes to 2024 Maryland housing regulations, the set of state and county-level laws governing rental property ownership, tenant protections, and landlord responsibilities in Maryland. Also known as Maryland rental laws, these rules directly impact how you collect rent, handle repairs, and even evict a tenant. Unlike some states where landlords have wide freedom, Maryland puts strong checks on rental practices—especially in cities like Baltimore, Montgomery County, and Prince George’s County.

One of the biggest changes in 2024 is the strict timeline for getting a Maryland rental license, a legal requirement for anyone renting out property in most Maryland jurisdictions. Without it, you can’t legally collect rent, and fines can pile up fast. The process varies by county, but most take 4 to 12 weeks, and inspections are now more common. Landlords who skip this step aren’t just breaking the law—they’re risking their ability to sue tenants for unpaid rent. On the tenant side, rent increases are capped in many areas, and landlords must give 60 days’ notice for any hike over 5%. Security deposit rules are tighter too: deposits must be held in interest-bearing accounts, and you have 45 days after move-out to return them—or explain why you’re keeping part of it.

Evictions are another major area. Maryland now requires landlords to prove they’ve tried mediation before filing for eviction, and courts can delay removals if the tenant shows financial hardship. This isn’t just paperwork—it’s a real shift in how disputes get handled. Meanwhile, tenant rights Maryland, the legal protections tenants have against discrimination, retaliation, and unsafe living conditions. Also known as renter protections Maryland, these include the right to withhold rent for major repairs, the right to a habitable home, and protection against illegal lockouts. If your AC breaks in July and your landlord ignores you for weeks, you’re not out of luck—you have legal tools to force action.

These rules aren’t just about fairness—they’re about stability. Whether you’re a landlord trying to avoid fines or a tenant tired of being pushed around, knowing what’s in the law saves time, money, and stress. The posts below break down exactly how these rules play out in real life: how long it takes to get a license, what rent hikes are legal, what repairs you can demand, and how to protect yourself if things go wrong. No fluff. Just what you need to know to operate within the system—or fight it if you have to.