Maryland
0.7 million Hispanics
Summary: renting in Maryland
Maryland limits deposits and requires the landlord to pay interest on the money held.
Renting in Maryland can be a positive experience if you know your rights from day one. The Maryland Security Deposit Law is one of the most important protections for tenants: it limits the security deposit to one month's rent and requires the landlord to pay you interest on that money while they hold it. With approximately 0.7 million Hispanics in the state, more and more Latino families need to understand these rules to protect their home and their money.
In Maryland, if your landlord wants to evict you, they must give you at least 10 days' notice before starting any legal process. Additionally, some counties in the state have rent control, which can limit how much your monthly payment can increase. Knowing these rules not only gives you peace of mind, but also puts you in a stronger position if a conflict with your landlord ever arises. Getting informed is the first step to living securely in Maryland.
Main law: Maryland Security Deposit Law
Maximum deposit
1 month of rent
Eviction notice
10 days
Rent control
Some counties have rent control
💡 Tip for Maryland
You have the right to a move-in inspection and to have the landlord pay you interest on your deposit.
⚠️ Common problem to avoid
Deposit: the landlord has 45 days to return it with interest after move-out.
Security deposit in Maryland
Under the Maryland Security Deposit Law, your landlord can only charge a maximum of one month's rent as a security deposit. You have the right to request a move-out inspection to document the condition of the apartment before you leave. After you move out, the landlord has 45 days to return your deposit along with the accrued interest. To protect yourself, take dated photos on the day you move in and the day you move out, keep all payment receipts, and document any pre-existing damage in writing from the very beginning.
The eviction process in Maryland
In Maryland, before starting a formal eviction process, your landlord must give you a written notice of at least 10 days. Receiving that notice can be frightening, but the most important thing is not to ignore it. From day one, keep the notice, write down the date you received it, and seek free legal advice immediately. Responding on time can make the difference between staying in your home or losing it. Never leave the property without first consulting a lawyer or housing counselor.
Rent and increases in Maryland
In Maryland, some counties have rent control, meaning that in those areas landlords cannot raise rent without limits. However, this protection does not apply throughout the entire state, so it is essential that you verify whether your county or city has this regulation. If there is no rent control in your area, landlords can generally increase rent when your lease expires, as long as they give you advance notice. Check with local resources or call 2-1-1 to learn the specific rules for your area.
Practical checklist for tenants in Maryland
- Request a move-out inspection in writing before returning the keys to your Maryland apartment.
- Take dated photos when moving in and out to document the actual condition of the unit.
- Keep all rent and deposit receipts; in Maryland they are key legal evidence in disputes.
- Check if your county has rent control by calling 2-1-1 or visiting your local housing office.
- If you receive a 10-day eviction notice, seek free legal advice that same day without delay.
- Report housing discrimination to HUD by calling 1-800-669-9777 or contacting Fair Housing Maryland.
Key tenant rights in Maryland
- • Right to a habitable and safe home
- • Protection against housing discrimination
- • Right to privacy (notice before the landlord enters)
- • Protection against retaliation for legitimate complaints
- • Right to the return of the security deposit
Do you have a problem with your landlord in Maryland? Follow these steps
- 1
Document everything: keep your lease, payment receipts, and take dated photos of any problem in the home.
- 2
Always notify your landlord in writing (text message, email, or letter) and keep a copy. Verbal messages do not work as proof.
- 3
If the landlord does not respond, seek free legal help for Maryland tenants. Many organizations advise you at no cost.
- 4
Call 2-1-1 to find local housing resources and assistance in your area, available in Spanish.
- 5
If you suffered discrimination, report it for free to HUD by calling 1-800-669-9777.
Frequently asked questions about Maryland
If you need help in Maryland, call 2-1-1 to connect with housing services and free legal assistance in Spanish. Organizations like Maryland Legal Aid offer no-cost representation for low-income tenants. If you believe you have been discriminated against because of your origin or language, contact HUD at 1-800-669-9777 or a local Fair Housing agency. Don't face landlord problems alone; there are resources available to help you defend your rights in Maryland.
How much can the landlord ask me for a security deposit in Maryland?
In Maryland, the security deposit limit is: 1 month of rent. Always keep the payment receipt and take photos of the home condition when you move in to protect your money.
How much notice can they give me before eviction in Maryland?
The typical eviction notice in Maryland is 10 days. Never ignore a notice: respond immediately and seek free legal help if you believe the eviction is unfair.
Is there rent control in Maryland?
About rent control in Maryland: Some counties have rent control. Even if there is no state control, some cities have their own rules, so check the local ordinance.
What is the main law that protects me as a tenant in Maryland?
The key law in Maryland is the Maryland Security Deposit Law. This rule defines your basic rights over habitability, deposits, repairs, and the eviction process.
Resources in Maryland
- • Call 2-1-1 for local resources
- • Free legal help for Maryland tenants
- • HUD — Discrimination complaints
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