Maryland Rent Caps: Local Ordinances and Your Rights

Many renters across Maryland are concerned about increasing housing costs and sudden rent hikes. While Maryland does not have a statewide rent control law, several local jurisdictions have implemented their own rent cap ordinances to protect tenants. This guide explains key Maryland rent caps, important local ordinances, forms, and your rights as a renter—so you can feel supported and informed.

Understanding Rent Caps in Maryland

At the state level, Maryland does not impose a universal rent limit. However, cities and counties have adopted their own rent stabilization laws following rising rental costs, especially since 2023. These laws typically limit how much and how often your landlord can raise your rent within a given year.

Key Local Rent Cap Ordinances in Maryland

• Montgomery County: In July 2023, Montgomery County passed the "Rent Stabilization Ordinance," capping most increases at the local maximum of 6% per year.
• Prince George’s County: Emergency rent stabilization through the "Rent Stabilization Act of 2023" placed a maximum 3% annual rent increase for qualifying rental units (January 2023–April 2024, with possible extensions).
• Takoma Park: Longstanding rent stabilization limits increases according to the city’s annual rent-increase allowance, typically ranging from 2%–4% annually. See the city's official rent stabilization program for current allowance.

Other cities—including Baltimore—do not currently have active rent control, but tenants are protected under Maryland’s general landlord-tenant law. Always check your local county or city's housing department for updates.

How Rent Increases Must Be Handled

Even without a general state cap, all Maryland landlords are required to give proper notice before increasing rent.

• Notice Requirement: Landlords must give at least 60 days’ written notice before a rent increase (for leases longer than one month and less than one year)^[1].
• If you live in a jurisdiction with a rent cap, the increase cannot exceed the stated maximum, unless exceptions apply (such as approved hardship increases).

Official Forms for Renters: How and When to Use Them

Knowing which forms to use is important if you are facing a rent increase or believe your rent was raised unlawfully under a local ordinance. Here are some official Maryland forms you might use:

• Montgomery County: Request for Rent Increase Approval: Used by landlords to request exceptions above the rent cap. Tenants should review any such request and can contact the county’s Department of Housing and Community Affairs (DHCA) if they believe the increase is unauthorized.
• Takoma Park: Rent Increase Appeal Form: If you receive a rent increase above the allowance, use this form to file an appeal with the City’s Rent Stabilization Office.
• General Maryland Tenants: Complaint Form for Failure to Pay Rent (DC-CV-083): If you believe your landlord is retaliating after you question a rent increase, and they initiate eviction proceedings, you may respond using this form. For guidance, see the Maryland Courts' landlord-tenant resource.

Which Tribunal Handles Rent Disputes in Maryland?

Residential rent disputes in Maryland are handled by the Maryland District Court in your county. Housing/code enforcement or rent stabilization offices can also assist with local compliance, especially in cities like Takoma Park and Montgomery County. Consult your local housing department for specifics.

Relevant Legislation Covering Tenancy and Rent Caps

• Maryland Code, Real Property § 8-208—Landlord and Tenant: Covers tenant notice, lease agreements, retaliation, and general rent regulations.
• Montgomery County Rent Stabilization Law
• Takoma Park Rent Stabilization Law
• Prince George’s County Rent Stabilization Act

In summary, Maryland renters don’t have broad statewide rent control, but many local governments are taking action via local ordinances. Always read your lease terms, check for local rules, and know your rights under Maryland state law.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can my landlord raise my rent at any time in Maryland?
   No. All Maryland landlords must give you at least 60 days’ written notice before increasing the rent. Cities with rent cap ordinances may have stricter guidelines limiting how much the rent can be increased at one time.
2. What should I do if my landlord increases my rent above the local cap?
   Contact your local housing department or rent stabilization office immediately. In Montgomery County and Takoma Park, you can file a formal appeal or complaint using the official form linked above.
3. Does rent control apply in Baltimore or statewide?
   No. There is no rent control in Baltimore or at the statewide level—only certain local counties and cities have ordinances capping rent.
4. Where do I file a formal complaint about rent increases?
   Start with your local housing/rent stabilization program. For legal disputes, you can bring your case to the Maryland District Court.
5. Is there an official rent increase notice form?
   Maryland law does not require a specific rent increase notice form, but it must be in writing and meet the 60-day advance rule before the increase takes effect.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Maryland Renters

• There is no statewide rent cap in Maryland, but local cities like Montgomery County, Prince George’s County, and Takoma Park have their own rent stabilization laws.
• Landlords must give at least 60 days’ written notice before raising your rent.
• If you believe your rights are being violated, use official forms and contact your local housing authority or the Maryland District Court for help.

Stay informed about your local rent rules to ensure fair treatment and to respond quickly if your rent is being raised improperly.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Montgomery County Department of Housing and Community Affairs (Landlord-Tenant Affairs)
• Takoma Park Rent Stabilization Office
• Prince George’s County Rent Stabilization Program
• Maryland Courts: Landlord/Tenant Legal Help
• Statewide General Inquiries: Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development – Renter Assistance

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1. See: Maryland Code, Real Property § 8-208

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