Maryland Co-Living Space Laws: What Renters Should Know

Sharing a home in Maryland—whether with roommates, in a co-living space, or by subletting—offers flexibility and community, but also raises important legal questions. If you’re a renter in the state, it’s essential to know your rights and responsibilities before entering any shared housing arrangement. This guide explains Maryland’s regulations for co-living spaces, official forms, and practical tips for a safe and legal living experience.

Understanding Co-Living and Shared Housing in Maryland

Co-living involves renting a private or shared bedroom in a larger property, often sharing common areas such as kitchens and bathrooms. It’s popular among students, young professionals, and anyone seeking affordable or flexible housing. Maryland law treats co-living and traditional roommates similarly, but there are unique considerations.

Key Regulations and Renters’ Rights

• Lease Agreements: Maryland requires a written lease for terms longer than one year. For shorter arrangements or month-to-month rentals, a written agreement is highly recommended for clarity.
• Occupancy Limits: Many counties and cities in Maryland set occupancy limits for rental units. Exceeding these limits may violate local housing codes. For example, Montgomery County's occupancy standards limit the number of unrelated occupants.
• Subletting: Maryland’s Real Property Code § 8-208 states that the original lease determines if subletting is allowed. Written landlord consent is usually required.
• Security Deposits: Maryland law caps security deposits at two months’ rent. All roommates should have clear, written arrangements for deposit shares and refunds.
• Repairs and Maintenance: Landlords must keep rental spaces safe and habitable under the Maryland Real Property Code § 8-211.

For more on renters’ rights in Maryland, see the Maryland Attorney General’s Tenant-Landlord Rights Guide.

Important Forms and How to Use Them

• Maryland Standard Lease Agreement – Used when entering into a rental or roommate contract. Always specify each occupant’s responsibilities.
  • Find an official sample via Washington County’s sample Residential Lease (PDF).
• Notice to Vacate (30-Day Notice) – Maryland doesn’t require a specific form, but written notice is mandatory for ending most month-to-month tenancies. Tenants can write their own, stating the date and intention to leave. Sample templates are available on county websites like this Montgomery County notice form.
• Rental Licensing Documentation – Some Maryland counties (like Baltimore City and Montgomery County) require landlords to hold a rental license. Tenants in co-living spaces can request to see the license or verify it online (e.g., Baltimore City’s online licensing search).

Example: If you and several friends want to sublet a room in Baltimore, ask the landlord for a copy of their city rental license, confirm subletting is allowed in your lease, and put all agreements in writing to protect everyone involved.

Dealing with Roommate or Co-Living Disputes

Disagreements over rent, chores, or guests are common in shared spaces. For most conflicts:

• Discuss issues calmly and document discussions
• Refer to your written agreement for guidelines
• If serious, seek help from your landlord or property manager

What Happens If a Roommate Leaves Early?

If someone leaves before the lease is up, the remaining tenants may be responsible for the full rent unless otherwise agreed in writing. Notify the landlord promptly and discuss whether new roommates are allowed.

How to File a Complaint or Seek Help

If you believe your rental is illegal, overcrowded, or unsafe, contact your local housing department or the state’s key tenancy authority, the Maryland District Court Civil Division – Landlord-Tenant Section. You may need to complete a complaint form or appear in court for dispute resolution.

Maryland’s Main Residential Tenancy Laws

• Maryland Real Property Code Title 8 – Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
• Local building and occupancy codes (check with your city or county housing department)

These laws protect all tenants, including those in co-living spaces, with rules about rent increases, evictions, and maintenance

FAQs: Maryland Co-Living & Shared Housing

1. Do co-living spaces have special rules in Maryland?
   Co-living arrangements must follow Maryland’s general rental laws and any local occupancy or licensing rules. There are currently no statewide laws specific to co-living spaces.
2. Can my landlord refuse to let me have a roommate?
   Your lease controls whether roommates are allowed. Always check for guest or subletting clauses and get written approval from your landlord if required.
3. What should I do if my co-living space is overcrowded?
   Report overcrowding to your county’s housing department or code enforcement office. Overcrowding may violate local regulations and can affect your safety.
4. Who handles disputes with landlords in Maryland?
   The Maryland District Court's Landlord-Tenant Section decides most rental disputes between landlords and tenants, including issues in co-living spaces.

Key Takeaways for Maryland Renters in Shared Housing

• Get all roommate and co-living agreements in writing
• Check local occupancy and rental requirements
• Ask for your landlord’s rental license (if required by your city or county)
• Know your rights under Maryland Real Property Code Title 8

Being informed helps prevent disputes and protects your financial and legal interests.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maryland District Court Landlord-Tenant Section – Main tribunal for landlord-tenant disputes
• Maryland Attorney General – Guide to Landlord-Tenant Rights
• Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development
• Contact your county housing office for local requirements and enforcement

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1. Maryland Real Property Code Title 8
2. Maryland District Court Landlord-Tenant Section
3. Maryland Attorney General’s Guide to Landlord/Tenant Rights
4. Montgomery County Occupancy Standards

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