Early Lease Termination Fees in Maryland: What Renters Need to Know

Ending a lease early in Maryland can feel overwhelming, especially when facing possible fees or penalties. If you're a renter dealing with changing circumstances, it's important to know what early lease termination fees are, when they're legally allowed, and how state law protects your rights. This guide breaks down Maryland's rules, forms, and resources you need.

What Are Early Lease Termination Fees?

Early lease termination fees are charges a landlord may require if you leave your rental before the lease ends. In Maryland, these fees must follow guidelines laid out in your lease agreement and in Maryland Code, Real Property § 8-101 and § 8-207^[1].

When Can a Landlord Charge Early Termination Fees?

In Maryland, a landlord may charge an early termination fee if:

• The lease agreement clearly states there will be a fee and explains the amount or calculation method.
• You are not leaving for a legally protected reason (like active military duty or certain health/safety violations).

The fee amount cannot be arbitrary or excessively high; it should reflect the landlord's actual costs for re-renting the unit.

Common Early Lease Termination Scenarios in Maryland

• Job relocation or personal circumstances: Unless your lease provides flexibility, you may owe the stated termination fee.
• Military service: Under the federal Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA), active duty military renters can terminate a lease early without penalty under certain conditions.^[2]
• Unsafe or uninhabitable conditions: You may have the right to break the lease if the landlord fails to maintain safe, healthy housing. Always document the issue and notify your landlord in writing.

Exceptions: When Early Termination Fees May Not Apply

There are special circumstances where Maryland law protects renters from these fees:

• Military deployment: Covered under SCRA.
• Victims of domestic violence: Maryland law allows you to end your lease with proper documentation (such as a protective order).^[3]
• Landlord fails to meet health or safety obligations: If your rental is uninhabitable due to code violations, state law may let you break the lease without a fee.

Required Forms for Early Lease Termination in Maryland

• 30-Day Written Notice to Vacate:
  • When used: In most cases, renters must give written notice—usually 30 days—before moving out, even if ending the lease early.
  • How to use: Write a short letter or use your landlord's preferred form. Include your name, address, date you intend to leave, and signature. Hand-deliver or send via certified mail for proof.
  • Sample Notice to Vacate (Montgomery County)
• Protection Order Documentation (for Domestic Violence):
  • When used: Victims can submit a court-issued protective order or peace order to terminate a lease without penalty.
  • How to use: Provide a copy to your landlord and request release from your lease under Maryland Real Property § 8-5A-02.
  • Maryland Protective Order Petition Form (Form CC-DC-DV-001)
• Military Lease Termination Letter:
  • When used: Active duty military can terminate a lease with written notice, proof of service, and deployment orders.
  • How to use: Send the letter and copy of orders to your landlord. Use certified mail for your records.
  • Sample SCRA Lease Termination Letter

How Maryland Handles Lease Disputes

If you and your landlord disagree about an early termination fee or other lease issue, you may apply for a hearing or file a complaint with the Maryland District Court Landlord-Tenant Division.^[4]

What the Law Says: Key Legislation

• Maryland Code, Real Property Title 8
• Maryland Real Property § 8-207 (Month-to-Month Notices)
• Maryland Real Property § 8-5A-02 (Domestic Violence Protection)

FAQ: Maryland Early Lease Termination Fees

1. Can a landlord in Maryland always charge early termination fees?
   Only if your lease specifically includes the fee and you are not protected by exceptions (such as military service or domestic violence status).
2. How much are early termination fees usually in Maryland?
   The fee should be reasonable and typically matches the landlord’s actual costs, not a large penalty—commonly one or two months’ rent.
3. Do I have to pay if my landlord refuses to fix serious problems?
   If your unit is uninhabitable and your landlord is legally at fault, you may have the right to leave without penalty. Document everything and seek advice if needed.
4. What if the landlord finds a new tenant quickly?
   By law, landlords must try to re-rent your unit. You may owe less or nothing if the property is re-rented soon after you leave.
5. Which agency handles lease disputes in Maryland?
   The Maryland District Court Landlord-Tenant Division handles landlord-tenant issues.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Maryland Renters

• Always read your lease: Early termination fees must be clear and reasonable.
• Certain situations—like military duty or proven domestic violence—give you special protections.
• Official forms and documented communication are key if you need to end your lease early.

By following Maryland's rules and using the official resources, you can handle early lease termination with confidence and support.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maryland District Court Landlord-Tenant Division – File complaints and get forms
• Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development – Renter programs and rights information
• Maryland Attorney General's Tenant-Landlord Rights – Guides and contact info
• For local help, check Maryland Courts Self-Help Center

---

1. See Maryland Code, Real Property § 8-101
2. Details in Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA)
3. Refer to Maryland Real Property § 8-5A-02
4. For tribunal info, see Maryland District Court Landlord-Tenant Division

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations