Filing Effective Repair Requests as a Maryland Renter

If you’re renting a home or apartment in Maryland and face unresolved maintenance problems, knowing how to file a repair request can make a big difference. Maryland law gives renters the right to safe and habitable living conditions. This article explains how to submit repair requests, protect your rights, and what to do if your landlord doesn’t respond. We’ll guide you through every step so you can confidently request repairs and get results under Maryland regulations.

Understanding Your Right to Repairs in Maryland

As a renter in Maryland, your landlord is legally required to keep your home safe and livable. This includes fixing issues that could affect your health or safety, such as:

• Problems with heating, plumbing, or electrical systems
• Leaking roofs or windows
• Pest infestations
• Busted appliances included in your lease

Your rights come from the Maryland Code, Real Property § 8-211, which requires all landlords to maintain their properties in a fit and habitable condition.^[1]

Steps to File a Repair Request That Gets Results

Your chances of getting repairs made improve if you follow these practical steps:

1. Notify Your Landlord in Writing

• Always make your request in writing, even if you’ve spoken with your landlord before. This creates an official record.
• Include the date, a clear description of the repair, and a deadline for response.
• Email or certified mail is best, as it provides proof of delivery.

2. Keep Documentation

• Save copies of all written requests and landlord responses.
• Take photos or videos documenting the problem and any worsening conditions over time.
• Write down dates of phone calls or in-person requests.

3. Follow Up as Needed

• If you don’t get a response within a reasonable time (often 14 days for non-emergencies), send a polite follow-up letter.
• For urgent issues (such as no heat or unsafe electrical systems), you can request faster action.

4. If Repairs Aren’t Made: Next Steps

If your landlord fails to fix the issue after written notice:

• You may be able to file for rent escrow with your local District Court.
• This process lets you pay rent to the court instead of the landlord until repairs are made.
• You’ll need to use Maryland’s official Rent Escrow Complaint form (see below).

Official Forms for Repair Requests and Rent Escrow

• Rent Escrow Complaint (Form DC-CV-083)
  • When and how it’s used: If your landlord hasn’t fixed a dangerous condition after notice, use this form to ask the court for help. Example: You gave your landlord written notice about mold in the apartment, but nothing happened after two weeks. Complete the Rent Escrow Complaint (DC-CV-083) and file it at your local Maryland District Court.
  • Official instructions: Maryland Courts – Rent Escrow Help

If you need accessible or alternate versions of forms, contact your Maryland District Court location.

Which Tribunal Handles Rental Disputes?

Maryland residential tenancy disputes—like failure to make repairs—are handled by the Maryland District Court, which oversees rent escrow and landlord-tenant complaints.^[2]

Quick Summary of Filing a Repair Request

• Notify your landlord in writing with details and deadlines
• Document everything
• Try to resolve directly—if no response, consider rent escrow via the Maryland District Court

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I need to give my landlord written notice for all repairs?
   Yes, giving written notice is required to protect your rights and start the legal repair process in Maryland.
2. What if my landlord ignores my repair request?
   If there’s no action after a reasonable time, you can file a rent escrow complaint with the District Court.
3. Can I withhold rent if repairs aren’t made?
   No, but you may pay rent into court (rent escrow) after following the process. Don’t just stop paying your landlord directly.
4. How quickly does my landlord have to fix serious problems?
   Maryland law requires quick action on health and safety issues, but the exact timeframe depends on the circumstances—immediately for urgent dangers.
5. Is there a form for making a basic repair request?
   There is no statewide official request form, but your written letter or email notifying the landlord becomes your record for any official steps.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Put every repair request in writing for your records.
• If your landlord doesn’t respond, you can file a rent escrow complaint with the Maryland District Court.
• Understand your legal rights to a safe and habitable home under Maryland law.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maryland Courts – Landlord/Tenant Information
• Maryland People’s Law Library – Housing Issues for Tenants
• Maryland Office of Attorney General – Rights of Renters
• Find your nearest court: Maryland District Court Locations
• Tenant support: Maryland Legal Aid Housing Advocacy

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1. Maryland Code, Real Property § 8-211 – Repair of dangerous defects; rent escrow
2. Maryland District Court – Landlord and Tenant Cases

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