Maryland Landlord Laws: What You Need to Know About Rental Rules and Licensing

When you own a rental property in Maryland, a U.S. state with strict landlord-tenant regulations that require formal licensing and clear communication. Also known as Maryland rental property laws, it governs everything from how much rent you can raise to how quickly you must return a security deposit. Unlike some states where landlords have wide freedom, Maryland treats rental ownership as a regulated business — not just a side income. If you’re a landlord here, you’re not just collecting rent; you’re complying with state and county-level rules that can change based on where your property sits.

One of the biggest surprises for new landlords is the Maryland rental license, a legal requirement to rent out property in most counties, including Baltimore, Montgomery, and Prince George’s. Also known as landlord registration, it’s not optional — and failing to get one can mean fines, blocked evictions, or even losing the right to collect rent. The process takes anywhere from 2 to 8 weeks, depending on your county, and often requires proof of insurance, property inspection, and background checks. You can’t just assume your lease covers everything — Maryland law says you must provide tenants with a copy of the license before they move in.

Another key part of Maryland landlord laws, the state’s rules on rent increases and lease terms. Also known as rent control regulations, they vary by county but generally require 60 days’ notice for any rent hike on a month-to-month lease. For fixed-term leases, you can’t raise rent until the lease ends — unless the lease itself says otherwise. And even then, the increase must be reasonable. Courts have ruled that a $300 jump without justification can be challenged as retaliatory or discriminatory. Security deposits? Capped at two months’ rent. You have 45 days after a tenant moves out to return it — or explain in writing why you’re keeping part of it. No vague excuses. No delays. No hidden fees.

These rules aren’t meant to scare you off — they’re meant to level the playing field. Landlords who follow them avoid lawsuits, keep good tenants, and build long-term value. Those who ignore them risk losing more than just a tenant — they risk losing their right to rent at all. The posts below break down exactly what you need to do, how long it takes, and what common mistakes landlords make when they think they know the rules.