Maryland Tenant Rights
Maryland has relatively strong tenant protections, especially in Montgomery County and Baltimore City.
Security Deposit
- Maximum allowed
- 2 months' rent
- Return deadline
- 45 days
- Itemized deductions required
- Yes
Landlord Entry
- Notice required
- Reasonable notice required
- Emergency exception
- Yes — landlord may enter without notice in genuine emergencies
Notice to Vacate
- Month-to-month
- 30 days (tenant) / 60 days (landlord in Baltimore)
- Fixed-term lease
- No notice required — ends automatically
Rent Control
- Statewide rent control
- No
- Local ordinances allowed
- Yes
- Details
- Montgomery County has rent guidelines (voluntary). Some municipalities have rent stabilization measures.
Late Fees & Grace Period
- Grace period
- No statutory grace period
- Late fee limit
- 5% of monthly rent
Early Lease Termination
Early termination for military deployment, domestic violence, uninhabitable conditions. Landlord must mitigate damages.
Key Statutes & Laws
- Maryland Real Property Code § 8-101 through § 8-604
Frequently Asked Questions — Maryland Tenant Rights
What is the security deposit limit in Maryland?
In Maryland, the security deposit limit is 2 months' rent. Landlords must return the deposit within 45 days.
How much notice must a Maryland landlord give before entering?
Maryland requires Reasonable notice required before landlord entry. Emergencies are exempt from notice requirements.
Does Maryland have rent control?
Montgomery County has rent guidelines (voluntary). Some municipalities have rent stabilization measures.
Can I break my lease early in Maryland?
Early termination for military deployment, domestic violence, uninhabitable conditions. Landlord must mitigate damages.
What is the late fee grace period in Maryland?
No statutory grace period. Late fee limit: 5% of monthly rent.
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This guide provides general information about Maryland tenant rights and is not legal advice. Laws change — always verify current statutes with your local tenant rights organization or a licensed attorney. Last updated March 2026.