Maryland Renter’s Rights and Stabilization Act Now in Effect
Starting October 1, 2024, renters in Maryland have new protections, which were granted under the Renters’ Rights and Stabilization Act of 2024. They include:
- Office of Tenant and Landlord Affairs
- Tenants Bill of Rights Publication
- Security Deposit Limit.
- Eviction Fees.
- Offers to Purchase Your Rental
Read more about your rights as a renter in Maryland on our page about Renter Rights.
Additional information on the Renters’ Rights and Stabilization Act is available from the Department of Housing and Community Development’s Office of Tenant and Landlord Affairs (maryland.gov) and from the DHCD Turning the Key Newsletter (sign up here).
Facing Eviction in Maryland? There are Programs to Help
If you have fallen behind on your rent or are facing eviction, there are several programs that can assist you.
Eviction Process from the Maryland Courts
This Q&A from the Maryland Court System can help you understand the steps in the eviction process and know your rights and obligations. Housing Cases | Maryland Courts (mdcourts.gov)
Resources for Renters
Maryland’s Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) has a list of resources for renters who need assistance for a variety of areas, from finding affordable housing to rental assistance and support. Get the full list of renter resources available on DHCD’s website.
Access to Counsel in Evictions Program
Certain Maryland residents may qualify for free legal representation in eviction cases through the Access to Counsel program operated by Maryland Legal Services Corporation. Visit Maryland Access to Counsel in Evictions | (legalhelpmd.org) to learn more and see if you qualify.
Landlord Not Doing Necessary Repairs to Your Home?
Every rental property must be “fit for human habitation,” meaning that it must be safe and suitable for people to live in. It must be free from serious defects or conditions that could cause a fire or are a serious and substantial threat to your life, health or safety.
If your landlord doesn’t fix the problem within a reasonable time after you provide notice, and the problem threatens life, health, or safety you have options:
- File a lawsuit in District Court for damages and a decrease in rent.
- Refuse to pay rent and use the issues as a defense if the landlord sues you for rent.
- File a rent escrow case, which allows you pay rent to the court instead of the landlord until the problems are fixed.
Learn more about rental repair rights and more with the Office of Tenant and Landlord Affairs.
Rent Escrow: When Your Rental Condition is Unsafe
Tenants may use the court’s rent escrow process to force landlords to repair serious or dangerous conditions in the property. If approved by the court, tenants pay rent into an escrow account until a landlord makes repairs. Tenants and non-business landlords may receive free advice, but not representation, from lawyers at the Maryland Court Help Center. Call 410-260-1392 or visit mdcourts.gov/helpcenter