Maryland Tenant Laws: Rights, Rent Rules, and Rental Licenses Explained

When you rent in Maryland, a U.S. state with specific landlord-tenant regulations that protect renters and require property owners to follow strict rules. Also known as Maryland rental law, it’s not just about signing a lease—it’s about knowing what you’re entitled to, when your landlord must act, and how to respond if they don’t. Unlike some states where landlords can raise rent anytime, Maryland has clear notice rules. If your rent goes up by $100 or more, your landlord must give you at least 60 days’ notice—no exceptions. And if you live in a city like Baltimore or Montgomery County, they might need a rental license, a legal permit required for landlords to rent out property in certain Maryland counties. Without it, they can’t collect rent, evict you, or even sue you for non-payment. This isn’t paperwork for show—it’s enforcement. In 2024, over 1,200 unlicensed rental units in Prince George’s County were fined, and tenants in those units had legal grounds to challenge rent payments.

What if your landlord tries to lock you out because you’re late on rent? In Maryland, that’s illegal. They can’t turn off your heat, change your locks, or remove your stuff. Only a court can order an eviction, and even then, a sheriff must carry it out. Your security deposit? It must be returned within 45 days after you move out, with a written itemized list of any deductions. No vague "cleaning fees" or "wear and tear" charges allowed. If they hold it longer, you can sue for up to three times the amount plus court costs.

And here’s something most renters don’t know: if your rental unit has serious health hazards—mold, no heat, broken windows, or pest infestations—you can legally withhold rent until repairs are made. You just have to follow the right steps: send written notice, give them a reasonable time to fix it, and deposit rent into an escrow account if needed. Maryland’s law doesn’t expect you to live in unsafe conditions. You’re not being difficult—you’re using your rights.

These rules aren’t just for big cities. Whether you’re renting a townhouse in Frederick or an apartment in Annapolis, Maryland tenant laws apply statewide. But local rules can add more. For example, in Montgomery County, landlords must register every rental unit annually and pass safety inspections. In Baltimore, they must provide smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms. Ignorance doesn’t protect them—and it shouldn’t protect you from unfair treatment.

So if you’re renting in Maryland, don’t assume your lease says it all. The law says more. And if your landlord ignores the rules, you’re not powerless. You have tools, timelines, and legal backing. Below, you’ll find real guides on what to expect when applying for a rental license, how much rent can legally increase, and what to do when things go wrong. These aren’t theoretical tips—they’re what actual tenants in Maryland used to win cases, get repairs, and keep their deposits.