MD · LEASE-AGMT · Updated July 2026 · Free
Maryland Lease Agreement
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Maryland at a glance: Security Deposit Limit: 2 months' rent · Deposit Return Deadline: 45 days after move-out · Notice to Terminate Month-to-Month: 60 days (tenancies over 1 year); 30 days (under 1 year)
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Overview
Lease Agreements in Maryland
Maryland landlord-tenant law is governed by Md. Code Ann., Real Prop. § 8-201 et seq. Maryland caps security deposits at two months' rent and requires them returned within 45 days of move-out with an itemized statement.
Maryland has no statewide rent control, though some local jurisdictions (including Montgomery County and Takoma Park) have rent stabilization programs. Eviction procedures vary by county.
Key Facts
Maryland Lease Agreement — Quick Reference
| Requirement | Maryland Rule |
|---|---|
| Security Deposit Limit | 2 months' rent |
| Deposit Return Deadline | 45 days after move-out |
| Notice to Terminate Month-to-Month | 60 days (tenancies over 1 year); 30 days (under 1 year) |
| Eviction Notice (Non-Payment) | 10-Day Notice (standard) |
| Rent Control | No statewide; some local (Montgomery County, Takoma Park) |
| Governing Law | Md. Code Ann., Real Prop. § 8-201 |
Legal Requirements
Maryland Legal Requirements
- Security deposit capped at 2 months' rent.
- Deposits must be returned within 45 days with itemized deductions.
- Landlords must pay annual interest on security deposits.
- Lead paint disclosure and inspection required for pre-1978 properties (Maryland has strict lead paint rules).
- Landlords must provide a written rental agreement.
Governing Laws
Maryland Governing Laws
Md. Code Ann., Real Prop. § 8-203
Security Deposits
Caps deposits at 2 months' rent. Requires interest to be paid annually. Return required within 45 days with itemized deductions. Double damages for wrongful withholding.
Md. Code Ann., Real Prop. § 8-401
Failure to Pay Rent
Governs Maryland's failure-to-pay-rent eviction process, which can proceed quickly in District Court.
Read the full text of these laws at Cornell Law School's Maryland legal resources or your state legislature's official website.
Questions & Answers
Maryland Lease Agreement — Frequently Asked Questions
Does Maryland require interest on security deposits?
Yes. Maryland landlords must pay annual interest on security deposits at a rate set by law. The interest must be included when the deposit is returned.
How strict are Maryland's lead paint rules?
Maryland has some of the strictest lead paint requirements in the country. Landlords of pre-1978 properties must register units, inspect for lead, provide disclosures, and meet specific lead-free or lead-safe standards.
Does Maryland have rent control?
No statewide rent control. Montgomery County and Takoma Park have local rent stabilization programs. Prince George's County and other counties do not.