Maryland’s Renters’ Rights and Stabilization Act (HB 693) took effect October 2024, bringing some of the most significant changes to landlord-tenant law in decades. If you haven’t updated your leases, security deposit procedures, and notice requirements, you may already be out of compliance — and the penalties can be steep. Here’s exactly what changed and what you need to do.
Key Changes Under the 2024 Act
1. Security Deposit Cap Lowered to 1.5×
Security deposits are now capped at 1.5× monthly rent — down from 2×. If you’re currently holding deposits above this threshold, you must either refund the excess or apply it toward rent, with written notice to the tenant. Failure to comply can result in the tenant being awarded up to 3× the excess as damages.
2. New Court Fees on Eviction Filings
Landlords filing for eviction in Maryland must now pay increased court fees, including a new $25 “right to counsel” surcharge per filing. Budget for this as part of your standard eviction cost projection.
3. Updated Lead Paint Compliance (Baltimore City)
For properties built before 1978 in Baltimore City, landlords must provide a current lead inspection certificate before tenancy begins and at each renewal. Failure to comply can result in fines, rent escrow proceedings, and inability to collect rent.
4. Termination Notice Extended to 60 Days
For month-to-month tenancies, landlords must now provide 60 days written notice to terminate — up from 30 days.
⚠️ Immediate action required: Review all current lease agreements and security deposit amounts. Update your lease template before your next lease-up to reflect the new 60-day termination notice and 1.5× deposit cap.
Standing Maryland Landlord-Tenant Requirements
| Requirement | What You Must Do | Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| Security deposit interest | Hold in separate account; interest belongs to tenant | Up to 3× deposit |
| Return deadline | 45 days after tenancy ends with itemized list | Forfeit entire deposit |
| Habitability standard | Heat, hot water, weatherproofing, pest-free, structurally sound | Rent escrow |
| Anti-retaliation | Cannot raise rent or evict within 6 months of complaint | Damages + attorney fees |
| Written lease | Must be provided to tenant at or before move-in | Void certain provisions |
The Maryland Eviction Process
Evictions in Maryland follow a specific timeline. Cutting corners at any step restarts the clock.
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