Maryland Rent Control: History, Laws, and Renter Protections

As a renter in Maryland, understanding the history of rent control campaigns and current rent stabilization policies is an important step in protecting your housing rights. This guide explains the major developments, key protections, and resources you can use to stay informed and advocate for fair rent practices in Maryland.

How Has Rent Control Evolved in Maryland?

Maryland does not have a statewide rent control law, but there have been significant local efforts to regulate rent increases and provide stabilization. Historically, some counties and cities have experimented with forms of rent control, particularly in response to periods of rising rents or housing shortages.

• Montgomery County: This county has enacted several rent stabilization measures, including emergency rent caps during housing crises. In 2023, Montgomery County passed the Rent Stabilization Act, capping annual rent increases for eligible units at the local Consumer Price Index (CPI) plus 3%.
• Prince George's County: Implemented a temporary rent stabilization law in 2023 to address sharp rent hikes, with rent increases limited to 3% for certain units. Explore the official details at the Prince George's County Rent Stabilization page.
• Baltimore City: While no permanent rent control, Baltimore has strengthened tenant protections against excessive rent increases, late fees, and unfair evictions. See official information and tenant resources on the Baltimore City Department of Housing & Community Development site.

Although statewide rent control campaigns have happened periodically, most laws remain local, and renters should check their city or county’s recent ordinances for the latest protections.

Understanding Key Tenant Protections in Maryland

Maryland law provides some basic protections for renters dealing with rent increases and evictions. However, the specific details – such as whether rent caps apply – depend on your locality.

What Is Considered a Legal Rent Increase?

• Most Maryland jurisdictions do not have a limit on how much rent can be increased, unless covered by a local rent stabilization law.
• Landlords must provide at least 60 days’ written notice before increasing rent for most rental periods longer than week-to-week.
• If you live in Montgomery County or Prince George's County, check their active ordinances for rent increase limits specific to your unit.

Official Forms Renters May Encounter

• Notice of Rent Increase (No standard state form)
  Typically, landlords provide a written letter to notify tenants of a rent increase. For example, if your Baltimore landlord increases your rent, they must deliver written notice at least 60 days in advance. No official statewide form exists, but consult your local office for sample formats.
  Maryland Attorney General's Landlord-Tenant Handbook
• Complaint for Failure to Pay Rent (Form DC-CV-082)
  Used by landlords to begin eviction proceedings if rent isn't paid. Tenants served with this form have the right to respond in court. The official version is available on the Maryland Courts website – see the "Failure to Pay Rent" section for example use.
• Petition for Writ of Rent Escrow (Form DC-CV-083)
  Renters can file this if the property needs serious repairs and the landlord is unresponsive. Learn more and download the form from the official Maryland Courts portal.

Learn more about essential renter forms in the Maryland Judiciary Forms Center.

Who Handles Rent Disputes and Laws in Maryland?

The Maryland District Court processes residential tenancy disputes, such as rent increases, eviction filings, and escrow requests. Check your county for local resources or tenant advocacy offices that provide guidance and, in some cases, mediation.

Statewide, your tenancy rights are governed by the Maryland Code, Real Property Article, Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant^[1].

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Maryland have statewide rent control?
   No, Maryland does not have a statewide rent control law. Some counties, such as Montgomery and Prince George's, have local rent stabilization measures that limit rent increases on qualifying units.
2. Can my landlord raise my rent at any time?
   Typically, landlords must give at least 60 days’ written notice for most lease types before increasing rent, unless your locality requires more notice or limits increases during an active lease.
3. What can I do if I think my rent increase is unfair?
   First, confirm if your county has a rent stabilization law. If not, verify the notice was proper. You may file a complaint or seek mediation at your local District Court or through Legal Aid Maryland.
4. Where can I get forms to file a rent escrow or answer an eviction notice?
   You can download Maryland court forms, including rent escrow petitions and answers to complaints, from the Maryland Judiciary Forms Center.
5. What agency can help with rent disputes?
   The District Court of Maryland and your local tenant advocacy organizations can provide mediation and legal information.

Key Takeaways for Maryland Renters

• Maryland rent control is local – check your county or city’s current laws.
• Always get proper written notice before rent increases.
• You have rights and options for disputes through your District Court and Legal Aid.

Staying informed of your local and state protections is critical to securing your housing stability.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maryland District Court Landlord-Tenant Information – Information about rent disputes, evictions, and court forms.
• Maryland Attorney General’s Office – Landlord-Tenant Resources
• Maryland Legal Aid – Free or low-cost legal help for eligible renters
• Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development: Renters and Rent Relief Programs
• Local rent stabilization information: Montgomery County Landlord-Tenant Affairs | Prince George's County Rent Stabilization

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1. Maryland Code, Real Property Article, Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant
2. Maryland District Court – Landlord and Tenant Matters
3. Maryland Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Handbook
4. Montgomery County Office of Landlord-Tenant Affairs
5. Prince George's County Rent Stabilization

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