Illegal Rental Advertisement Language in Maryland

If you're searching for a rental in Maryland, the language used in ads can impact your chances of finding a home. Maryland law, as well as federal rules, strictly limits what landlords and property managers can say in rental listings to prevent housing discrimination. Understanding these limits protects your rights and helps ensure fair treatment.

What Language Is Illegal in Maryland Rental Advertisements?

It's illegal for rental ads in Maryland to include words that discriminate — either directly or indirectly — against certain protected groups. Both federal Fair Housing Act rules and the Maryland Fair Housing Law make it unlawful to advertise rental units in a way that shows preference, limitation, or discrimination based on:

• Race or color
• Religion
• Sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation)
• National origin
• Familial status (such as families with children)
• Disability
• Marital status
• Source of income

For renters, this means you should expect to see neutral language and should never see statements that say or suggest:

• "No children" or "adults only"
• "Perfect for a single person" (unless describing unit size)
• "Christian neighborhood" or references to religion
• "No Section 8" or "must be employed" (relating to legal income status)
• References to race, nationality, gender, or discriminatory preferences

Even subtle words like "ideal for..." or "seeking mature tenants" may break Maryland fair housing rules if they imply a preference that matches a protected class.

Relevant Maryland Laws and Enforcement

Maryland's primary law about rental discrimination is the State Government Article, §20–702 – Fair Housing of the Maryland Code, which applies alongside federal fair housing protections.

The Maryland Commission on Civil Rights (MCCR) enforces these rules statewide. Local jurisdictions, like Baltimore and Montgomery County, may have additional protections. Renters can file complaints with the MCCR if they believe rental advertising violates fair housing law.

Practical Tip: How to Spot Illegal Discriminatory Language

If you see any of the following in a Maryland rental ad, consider it a red flag:

• "No kids," "No disabilities," or "English speakers only"
• "Not suitable for families"
• "Female preferred" or "senior adults only"

How Renters Can Report Illegal Rental Ads

If you believe an advertisement violates fair housing laws, you can file a complaint with the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights. The official process is straightforward:

• Complete the Employment & Housing Discrimination Intake Questionnaire (MCCR Form; no number assigned). This form is used to report alleged discrimination, including from illegal advertising. Download and print, or file online.
• Attach evidence, including the ad text or screenshots
• Submit the form by mail, fax, email, or in person to a regional MCCR office

After receiving your complaint, the MCCR will review and decide if a formal investigation is needed. They may contact you for more information or try to resolve the issue with the housing provider.

What If Ads Are Posted Online?

These rules apply to all advertising — whether it's a paper flyer, a sign, or a listing on a website or app. Online platforms must also avoid illegal or discriminatory statements.

If in doubt, always check the MCCR Housing Discrimination page or talk to a housing counselor before responding to questionable ads.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I do if I see discriminatory language in a Maryland rental listing?
   Save a copy of the ad and file a complaint with the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights. Include any screenshots or correspondence. This helps ensure landlords are held accountable for illegal advertising.
2. Is it legal for a Maryland landlord to advertise “no Section 8” or “income restrictions”?
   No. Maryland law protects against discrimination based on lawful source of income, including Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8). Such language in ads is prohibited.
3. Who investigates tenant rights and discrimination complaints in Maryland?
   The Maryland Commission on Civil Rights (MCCR) is the main agency enforcing fair housing and discrimination laws.
4. Are landlords allowed to describe the age or gender they prefer in ads?
   In most cases, no. Ads that show preference for age, gender, or other protected categories generally violate Maryland and federal fair housing law, with limited exceptions (for example, for certain senior housing).
5. Can real estate agents use statements like “perfect for families” or “single professionals only”?
   Such phrases can unintentionally discriminate. Real estate agents and landlords should stick to neutral descriptions about the property and avoid language that refers to a renter’s characteristics.

Key Takeaways for Maryland Renters

• Rental ads must not include language that discriminates or shows preference based on protected personal characteristics.
• Maryland law covers more than just federal categories — "source of income" is protected, too.
• If you see suspicious language, gather evidence and report it to the MCCR.

By staying alert to illegal language in ads, you help protect your own rights and support fair housing for everyone in Maryland.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maryland Commission on Civil Rights (MCCR) – File housing discrimination complaints or seek guidance
• Discrimination Intake Questionnaire – Official complaint form for reporting ads or practices violating fair housing law
• HUD Fair Housing & Equal Opportunity – National information on renter rights
• MCCR Guide to Housing Discrimination – Detailed resources and FAQs for Maryland renters

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1. Maryland State Government Code, §20–702 – Fair Housing
2. Federal Fair Housing Act Overview (HUD)
3. Maryland Commission on Civil Rights (MCCR) – Official Tribunal
4. MCCR Discrimination Intake Questionnaire – Official Complaint Form

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