Maryland Compliance Hub

Maryland Landlord-Tenant Law: 2026 Guide

The plain-English breakdown of Maryland rental law every self-managing landlord needs. Security deposit limits, late fee rules, notice periods, eviction process, and the official statute link, all in one place.

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Maryland at a glance

Security deposit
Max 2 Months
Late fees
After 15 Days, Cap 5%
Notice period
60 Days
Deposit return
45 Days

Source: official Maryland statute. Verified against 2026 text.

Maryland landlord-tenant law in plain English

Maryland landlord-tenant law sets the rules every rental in the state has to follow. Security deposits are capped at max 2 months, late fees are governed by after 15 days, cap 5%, the standard notice to terminate a month-to-month lease is 60 days, and security deposits must be returned within 45 days after the tenant moves out. The exact statute is the source of truth for any specific dispute.

Common Maryland landlord questions

Answered against the verified facts above and the linked statute. Not legal advice.

What is the maximum security deposit a landlord can charge in Maryland?
In Maryland, the security-deposit cap is Max 2 Months. Always confirm with the linked statute before drafting your lease.
Does Maryland cap late fees on rent?
Maryland's late-fee rule is: After 15 Days, Cap 5%. If the rule is 'per lease', spell out the exact dollar amount or percentage in writing so it is enforceable.
How much notice does a Maryland landlord have to give to end a month-to-month lease?
The standard notice period in Maryland is 60 Days. Different rules can apply for nonpayment, lease violations, or fixed-term leases ending.
How long does a Maryland landlord have to return the security deposit?
Maryland requires the deposit to be returned within 45 Days of move-out, with an itemized list of any deductions.
Can a landlord lock me out or shut off utilities in Maryland?
No. 'Self-help' evictions are illegal across all U.S. states. A landlord must serve written notice, file in court, and let a sheriff carry out any lockout.
Where can I read the full Maryland landlord-tenant statute?
The official statute link is at the bottom of this page. Rentari.ai cites it directly so you can verify any line item before signing or filing.

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Information here is general guidance, not legal advice. Verify with the linked statute or a licensed attorney before acting. Maryland statute: https://law.justia.com/codes/maryland/real-property/title-8/