MD · Tenant rights
Tenant Rights in Maryland
A plain-English overview of residential renter protections under Maryland Landlord and Tenant Law (Md. Code, Real Prop. § 8). Use this as a checklist before you sign — then verify anything that looks off in your specific lease.
Key rules at a glance
- Security deposit return: 45 days after tenancy ends
- Landlord entry notice: Reasonable notice; local counties may add rules
- Late fees: Maryland often limits late fees (commonly around 5% of the amount due in many contexts)—verify the current statute and county rules.
What to check in a Maryland lease
- 45-day deposit return
- Late fee percentage limits
- Lead paint disclosures
- County-specific renters' rights
Frequently asked questions
Does Maryland cap late fees?
Maryland law commonly restricts late fees (often discussed as about 5% of the amount of rent due). Confirm the exact current rule for your county and lease type.
Before you sign
Statutes set the floor — your lease can still include junk fees, auto-renewals, one-sided indemnification, or deposit language that conflicts with Maryland law. Comparing the document to Md. Code, Real Prop. § 8 is the fastest way to spot problems early.
LeaseGuard.ai provides educational information only and is not a law firm. This page is not legal advice. For disputes or case-specific interpretation, contact a licensed Maryland attorney or your local legal aid office.
Also see our lease guides for clause-by-clause renter tips.