Maryland Landlord Repair Deadlines: Renters’ Guide

Waiting on a repair from your landlord in Maryland? Understanding how quickly your landlord must respond and fix problems is crucial for keeping your home safe and comfortable. State law protects your right to a habitable living space, and there are official processes for when repairs aren't handled in a timely manner.

Landlord Responsibilities for Repairs in Maryland

In Maryland, landlords are legally required to keep rental properties in a fit and habitable condition. This includes making timely repairs to essential services (like plumbing, heating, and electricity), as well as ensuring the property meets state health and safety codes. Maryland’s main rental law is the Maryland Code, Real Property § 8-211, sometimes referred to as the “Repair and Deduct” law.^[1]

How Long Can a Landlord Take to Fix Issues?

There is no blanket timeframe in Maryland law covering all repair types, but the law does distinguish between emergencies and non-urgent repairs:

• Emergencies (e.g., no heat, no water, severe leaks, unsafe wiring): Landlords must begin addressing these issues as soon as possible—usually within 24 to 72 hours depending on local rules. Check with your city or county code enforcement office for local timelines.
• Serious health or safety violations: Maryland law gives landlords a “reasonable time” to correct conditions that are “dangerous to life, health, or safety.” What is reasonable depends on the repair type, but typically means within days, not weeks.
• Routine repairs: For less urgent issues, the state does not set a strict deadline, but landlords are expected to address them within a reasonable time after written notice.

If you’re unsure, contact your local housing code enforcement for more specific deadlines.

What Counts as a Serious Issue?

• No heat during required months
• No running water or functioning toilet
• Electrical hazards, gas leaks, severe mold or pest infestations
• Broken entry doors or windows that affect security

How to Request Repairs from Your Landlord

Always notify your landlord in writing about the problem. This provides proof that you made the request and starts the repair timeline.

• Be clear about the issue and its impact on your living conditions
• Keep copies of your communications (emails, letters, texts)
• Photograph the problem if possible

Official Form for Rent Escrow Actions

If your landlord fails to make critical repairs after written notice, you may file a “rent escrow” action in District Court. This process allows you to pay your rent into court until the repairs are made.

• Form Name: Petition in Action of Rent Escrow (Form DC-CV-083)
• When to Use: If serious or dangerous conditions remain unaddressed after giving the landlord reasonable time and proper written notice.
• Example: If your heat hasn’t been fixed for a week in winter after multiple requests, use this form to ask the court to intervene and temporarily hold your rent.

What To Do If Repairs Aren’t Made: Rent Escrow Steps

If your landlord does not address serious repairs:

• Notify your landlord in writing and allow reasonable time for repair
• Gather evidence (photos, letters, reports)
• Download and complete the Petition in Action of Rent Escrow (Form DC-CV-083)
• File the form at your local Maryland District Court
• The court will review your evidence and may order the landlord to make repairs, allow you to withhold rent, or even reduce your rent until repairs are made

Always pay your rent—either to your landlord or into escrow with the court—unless a judge tells you otherwise. Nonpayment can lead to eviction.

Maryland’s Residential Tenancy Tribunal

Maryland uses the District Court of Maryland as the main body for landlord-tenant disputes, including rent escrow actions and repair issues.^[2]

Summary of the Process

For major repair delays, the rent escrow option through the Maryland District Court helps ensure your living space remains safe while protecting your rights as a renter.

FAQs for Maryland Renters About Repairs

1. How fast must a landlord fix heat or hot water in Maryland?
   Emergencies like loss of heat or hot water should be addressed within 24–72 hours, though exact deadlines may vary by local law.
2. What if my landlord ignores my repair request?
   Send written notice, keep records, and if serious issues aren’t fixed, file a rent escrow action in District Court using Form DC-CV-083.
3. Can I withhold rent if repairs aren’t made?
   You may pay rent into court through rent escrow, but never stop paying rent without a court’s approval.
4. Are pest infestations considered serious repair issues?
   Yes, if they affect health and safety. Notify your landlord and, if unresolved, document the problem and consider rent escrow if conditions persist.
5. Is mold a habitability concern in Maryland rentals?
   Yes. Mold, especially in areas like bathrooms or basements, can violate habitability laws and should be reported promptly for repair.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Maryland Renters

• Maryland landlords must fix health and safety repairs within a reasonable time after written notice—emergencies usually require action within a few days.
• Always notify your landlord in writing and keep records.
• Use the rent escrow process with Form DC-CV-083 if repairs are not made.

Clear documentation and following official steps will help protect your rights and keep your home safe.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maryland Courts: Landlord-Tenant Information
• Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development – Renters
• Find Your Local District Court
• Maryland Legal Aid – Housing & Tenant Services

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1. Maryland Code, Real Property § 8-211 - Repairs Required by Landlord
2. District Court of Maryland — Landlord-Tenant Cases

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