Maryland Landlord Move-In Disclosure Requirements

Before you move into a rental home or apartment in Maryland, your landlord must give you specific information and documents as required by state law. These disclosures help protect both renters and landlords by ensuring transparency about things like fees, lead paint, security deposits, and the condition of the property. Understanding what landlords need to disclose can help you avoid problems down the road and make sure your rental experience starts off on the right foot.

What Maryland Landlords Must Disclose Before Move-In

Maryland requires landlords to provide several key disclosures before a new tenant moves in. These disclosures may be given as part of your lease agreement or as separate documents. Here are the most important ones:

1. Security Deposit Receipt and Statement

• Official Form: Security Deposit Receipt (no standard form number; typically included in the lease or as an addendum)
• When Used: After receiving any security deposit, your landlord must provide a written receipt, which should itemize the deposit and state your rights regarding inspection and return of the deposit.
  Maryland Attorney General — Security Deposits Guidance

2. Lead-Based Paint Disclosure

• Official Form: Disclosure of Information on Lead-Based Paint (Maryland MDE Optional Form)
• When Used: If the property was built before 1978, landlords must provide this lead disclosure form and a lead hazard information pamphlet before renting. Renters should receive a copy during the lease signing.
  Maryland Department of the Environment – Lead Rental Requirements

3. Notification of Pending Foreclosure

• Official Form: Notice of Foreclosure (Landlord-drafted, no official state form)
• When Used: If the property is subject to a pending foreclosure, the landlord must notify tenants in writing before the lease is signed.
  Maryland Code, Real Property § 7-105.3 Notice Requirements

4. Habitability and Inspection Rights

• Landlords must notify tenants of their right to be present during the move-in and move-out inspections. While there is no specific state-issued form, this requirement is typically covered in the lease or an addendum.
• For apartment buildings with five or more units, landlords must also provide notice that tenants may request a rental license or occupancy permit inspection records.
  Maryland Code, Real Property § 8-208 Lease Provisions

5. Nonrefundable Fees

• If the landlord collects nonrefundable fees (like application fees), these must be disclosed in writing and explained in the lease.
• Application fees are capped by law in Maryland—see official guidelines: Maryland Office of the Attorney General — Landlords and Tenants

Key Disclosure Forms: When and How to Use Them

It's important to recognize which forms you'll receive and what to check for. Always read each form carefully, ask questions, and keep a copy for your records.

• Security Deposit Receipt: Provided when you give your deposit. Example: If you pay a $1,000 deposit, the landlord must issue a written receipt outlining deposit terms and the address for the escrow account.
• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure: Required before move-in for rentals built prior to 1978. Example: If you're renting a 1965 rowhouse, your landlord should provide the Maryland Lead Paint Disclosure Form and EPA pamphlet before you sign.
• Foreclosure Notification: If your new rental is facing foreclosure, this written disclosure must be given before you commit to a lease.

What If Required Disclosures Are Missing?

Maryland law protects renters if landlords fail to provide required disclosures. For example, if a landlord does not give you the lead paint form for an older property, you may have legal remedies. If you believe your rights have been violated, you can:

• Contact the Maryland District Court — Landlord-Tenant Division
• File a complaint with the Maryland Department of the Environment Lead Poisoning Prevention Program

Relevant Tribunal and Legislation

• Residential tenancy matters are handled by the Maryland District Court — Landlord-Tenant Division
• Key legislation: Maryland Real Property Code, Title 8, Landlord and Tenant

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What disclosures must I receive before moving into a rental in Maryland?
   Landlords must provide disclosures about security deposits, lead-based paint (for pre-1978 homes), nonrefundable fees, and any foreclosure actions. See the official resources above for details.
2. What if my landlord doesn’t provide the required disclosures?
   You can contact the Maryland District Court’s Landlord-Tenant Division or the Maryland Attorney General’s office for advice or to file a complaint.
3. Do all rentals in Maryland require a lead paint disclosure?
   Only homes or apartments built before 1978 require the disclosure and pamphlet, due to risk of lead-based paint.
4. Is there a standard checklist for move-in inspections in Maryland?
   Maryland does not provide an official move-in checklist, but you have the right to inspect and document the property’s condition before moving in. Always keep written notes and dated photos.
5. How can I verify my rental has a valid license or passed inspection?
   For buildings with five or more units, you can request recent inspection records from your landlord or your local government’s housing/licensing office.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Maryland Renters

• Maryland landlords must provide specific disclosures before move-in — including security deposit information and, for older properties, lead-based paint notices.
• Always request copies of disclosures and read each carefully before signing your lease.
• If you suspect missing or improper disclosures, state agencies and courts can help you address the issue.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maryland District Court – Landlord-Tenant Division – For legal disputes and court forms
• Maryland Office of the Attorney General – Landlord-Tenant Protection
• Maryland Department of the Environment – Lead Safety Guidance for Tenants
• People’s Law Library of Maryland — Tenant Rights

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1. Maryland Real Property Code, Title 8, Landlord and Tenant
2. Maryland Department of the Environment – Lead Rental Requirements
3. Maryland Office of the Attorney General — Landlord-Tenant
4. Maryland District Court – Landlord-Tenant Division

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