Are landlords required to have sprinklers in all rental buildings in Maryland?

Not all rentals require sprinklers. Sprinklers are mandatory in newer and certain renovated multifamily buildings, but older small complexes may not be covered.

What should I do if fire exits or alarms are not working in my rental?

Notify your landlord in writing. If repairs are not made promptly, contact local code enforcement or the fire marshal, and consider the rent escrow process through the District Court.

Can Maryland renters withhold rent for unsafe fire safety conditions?

Rent withholding is permitted only through the official rent escrow process with the District Court after following specific steps.

Do townhomes or single-family rentals have different fire safety rules in Maryland?

Fire safety rules differ by building type. Multi-unit buildings generally face stricter requirements for exits and sprinklers. Local codes may also apply.

Maryland Fire Escape and Sprinkler Laws: Essential Renter Guide

Health & Safety Standards Maryland published June 21, 2025

As a Maryland renter, knowing your legal rights around fire safety can directly impact your well-being. Maryland law requires landlords to maintain fire escapes, smoke detectors, and—depending on building age, size, and type—fire sprinkler systems. This guide explains Maryland’s fire escape and sprinkler requirements for residential rentals, how to file complaints, and where to turn if you believe your building lacks required safety precautions. Our aim: help you stay safe and informed.

Maryland Residential Fire Safety Standards

Maryland has clear rules regarding fire protections in rental properties, including standards established by the Maryland State Fire Prevention Code and outlined in landlord-tenant law. These rules protect renters by requiring:

Accessible fire escapes: In multi-unit residential buildings, appropriate egress (exit) routes such as corridors, stairs, or fire escapes must be maintained free from obstruction.
Smoke alarms: Every rental unit must have operational smoke alarms or detectors in specified locations.^[1]
Fire sprinkler systems: Newly constructed multifamily buildings (since 1990) and certain renovated properties are required to have automatic fire sprinkler systems installed.^[2]

Standards can vary depending on building type, size, and age. Local city or county codes (such as those in Montgomery County or Baltimore City) may set stricter requirements, but state minimums always apply.

What Must Landlords Provide?

Unblocked fire escapes—doors, hallways, or ladders must not be sealed or blocked.
Functional smoke detectors—checked and maintained according to code. Landlords are responsible for the initial installation.
Fire sprinklers if required—newer or renovated multifamily buildings must have properly working sprinkler systems.
Annual inspections or as required by local authority.

If you’re unsure what applies to your home, check with your local fire marshal or housing office.

Your Rights: Filing a Complaint or Requesting an Inspection

Renters have the right to safe living conditions as set by the Maryland Real Property Code, § 8-211 (Repair of Dangerous Defects).^[3] If fire escapes, alarms, or sprinklers are missing or not maintained, you can:

Submit a written repair request to your landlord
File a complaint with your local housing code enforcement or fire marshal
Withhold rent in some cases after following the state’s rent escrow process

Use official forms and processes to ensure your complaint is recorded and addressed:

Request for Rent Escrow—Form: If fire safety defects are not fixed promptly, Maryland renters can file a rent escrow case with the District Court using the Complaint in Action of Rent Escrow (DC-CV-111) form. This is used when a landlord fails to remedy dangerous conditions and you want the court to hold your rent until repairs are made.
Violation Complaint—Local Housing Agency: Many counties/cities provide online or paper forms for reporting code violations (check your county or city Local Resources page). For example, Baltimore City offers a 311 request for housing code violations, including fire safety.

Action Example: If your apartment’s fire escape is blocked and your landlord doesn’t respond, you would first notify the landlord in writing. If conditions aren’t fixed promptly, file a rent escrow complaint in District Court, providing evidence of the unsafe condition.

Who Oversees Maryland Tenant Disputes?

The Maryland District Court is the main tribunal handling landlord-tenant disputes, including rent escrow cases and habitability complaints.

Tip: Always keep copies of your written requests, repair logs, and inspection reports. Proper documentation improves your chances if you need to take legal action.

FAQ: Maryland Fire Safety Protections for Renters

Are landlords required to have sprinklers in all rental buildings?
Not in all cases. Sprinklers are required in newly built multifamily buildings and some substantially renovated buildings. Older small complexes may not be covered.
What should I do if fire exits or alarms are not working?
Notify your landlord in writing right away. If the issue isn’t fixed quickly, contact local code enforcement or your fire marshal. You can also consider rent escrow through the District Court.
Can I withhold rent if fire safety conditions are dangerous?
You may have the right to withhold rent by using the official Maryland rent escrow process. File the proper complaint form in court, and only withhold rent if the court permits.
Do townhomes or single-family rentals have different fire code rules?
Requirements can differ. Most safety rules apply to all rentals, but multi-unit buildings have stricter standards for exits and sprinklers. Check with your local housing authority or fire marshal.

Conclusion: Staying Safe in Your Maryland Rental

Maryland law requires working fire escapes, smoke alarms, and—where applicable—sprinklers in rentals.
If your building is unsafe, notify your landlord and contact local officials. File a rent escrow complaint if urgent repairs are ignored.
Know your right to safe living conditions and use official channels for concerns.

Understanding these rules helps you protect your loved ones. If in doubt, reach out to a local tenant support agency or the District Court.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Maryland District Court – Landlord-Tenant Information: Handles repairs, rent escrow, and tenant complaints.
Complaint in Action of Rent Escrow (DC-CV-111) Form: File if your landlord does not address unsafe fire safety conditions.
Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development: Renter Resources
Maryland State Fire Marshal: Find local office contacts or file a safety concern.
Contact your city or county code enforcement office for local forms and help.

Maryland requirements for smoke alarms and fire safety: Maryland State Fire Marshal: Smoke Alarm Requirements
Sprinkler rules for residential buildings: Residential Sprinkler Information
Landlord-tenant obligations: Maryland Real Property § 8-211