Earlier this year, the Maryland General Assembly passed new laws impacting renters, which will go into effect on October 1, 2025. From pet policies to mold in rental units, here’s what you should know:
Notice of Eviction
Evictions are difficult situations for tenants, especially when it comes to removing their belongings from the rental unit. To provide clarity for renters on how long they have to complete their move out, landlords will now provide notice of the initial date the court has set for eviction. This applies in cases where the tenant has failed to pay their rent, has violated the lease agreement, or has overstayed in the unit after a lease term has ended, and the court has awarded the property back to the landlord. Learn more about HB 767.
Notice of Landlord Entry
Landlords may need to access the inside of the rental unit – but they shouldn’t come in unannounced. Now, a landlord must provide written notice to the tenant at least 24 hours prior to their planned entry into the unit, unless an emergency exists. In addition, the landlord may only enter between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday, unless the tenant agrees to other times or days. Learn more about HB 1076.
Pet Policy Disclosure (Pet Policy Transparency Act)
Finding a pet friendly rental is about to get easier. Under this bill, landlords must provide the property’s pet policy as part of an application form for the rental unit. In addition, if there is a website for that rental unit, the pet policy must also be listed there. This policy will include any weight or breed restrictions, upfront or monthly pet fees, insurance and vaccination requirements, limits on the number of pets allowed, and any other requirements. Learn more about HB 1152/SB 896.
Maryland Tenant Mold Protection Act
If left unaddressed, mold can create dangerous conditions for tenants and cause considerable damage to the rental unit itself. At lease signings, landlords will provide an informational pamphlet on mold to each tenant; tenants can request additional copies outside of those times. This pamphlet will outline ways to prevent mold accumulation in residential properties.
If a renter detects mold, it should be reported to the landlord immediately. The landlord is then required to perform a mold assessment within 15 days after tenant contact. If the assessment finds a mold issue, the landlord is required to perform mold remediation within 45 days after the assessment is completed, if possible. Learn more about SB 856.
Tenant Bill of Rights
These and other legal rights for tenants are now summarized in the Maryland Tenants Bill of Rights brochure, which will be included with lease agreements and is available at the Office of Tenant and Landlord Affairs website.
