Tenant Rights / Maryland
Maryland Tenant Rights Guide 2026
Security deposit limits, eviction process, habitability laws, and renter protections in Maryland. Everything you need to know before you sign.
Deposit max
2 months rent
Return deadline
45 days after move-out
Notice period
1 month for month-to-month
Penalty for violations
3x deposit or $200 (whichever is greater) for wrongful withholding
Key Tenant Rights in Maryland
Right to habitable premises. Landlord must maintain property free of conditions that endanger health
Rent escrow remedy. Tenant can pay rent to court if landlord fails to fix habitability issues
Landlord must give reasonable notice before entry (typically 24 hours)
Security deposit must be held in a segregated account and earn interest
Retaliation protections under Real Property Article 8-208.1
Security Deposit Rules
Maximum allowed: 2 months rent
Return deadline: 45 days after move-out
Penalty for violations: 3x deposit or $200 (whichever is greater) for wrongful withholding
Eviction Process in Maryland
Landlord files in District Court. Tenant has 4 days to respond (failure to pay) or 15 days (breach of lease). Court date within 5-10 days for nonpayment.
Rent Control in Maryland
Maryland allows local rent control. Takoma Park has rent stabilization. Montgomery County and Prince George's County have local tenant protections.
Local Tip for Maryland Renters
Maryland's rent escrow remedy is powerful. If your landlord fails to make repairs that affect health and safety, you can pay rent into court escrow instead of to your landlord. This gets repairs done fast.
Common Questions About Maryland Tenant Law
What is the security deposit limit in Maryland?
2 months rent
How long does a landlord have to return my deposit in Maryland?
45 days after move-out
How much notice does a landlord need to give me in Maryland?
1 month for month-to-month
Is there rent control in Maryland?
Maryland allows local rent control. Takoma Park has rent stabilization. Montgomery County and Prince George's County have local tenant protections.
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