Maryland Rent Control Laws: 2025 Renter Update

Many Maryland renters are concerned about rising rents or sudden increases in 2025. With the cost of living on the rise across the U.S., understanding whether Maryland has rent control or rent stabilization is crucial for anyone renting an apartment or home. This article breaks down the latest laws, local protections, and steps Maryland renters can take if they have questions or face steep rent hikes.

Does Maryland Have Statewide Rent Control in 2025?

As of June 2024, Maryland does not have a statewide rent control or rent stabilization law. This means there is no state cap on how much a landlord can increase rent each year, except in very limited local jurisdictions that have temporary protections.

What About Local Rent Caps or Emergency Measures?

Some Maryland counties and cities have enacted temporary or emergency rent stabilization measures, especially in response to COVID-19. These may limit rent increases for a certain period, but they are not permanent or statewide. For example:

• Montgomery County passed Bill 15-23 in 2023, capping annual rent increases to the greater of 6% or the local Consumer Price Index (CPI), with certain exemptions. View Montgomery County rent stabilization details.
• Other counties, like Prince George's, have considered but not passed similar measures as of this update.

Check your local county or city housing website to see if temporary rent caps are active in your area.

Your Rights as a Renter Facing a Rent Increase

Even without statewide rent control, Maryland tenants still have rights against unfair treatment. Under Maryland Real Property Code § 8-213, landlords must provide:

• Written notice at least 60 days in advance before increasing rent for most month-to-month tenancies.
• A lease that clearly states the rental amount and terms for fixed-term leases.
• Prohibited retaliation against tenants who exercise their legal rights.

If you have received a rent increase notice that does not comply with the law, you may have options to contest it.

How to Respond to a Rent Increase

• Carefully review your lease for renewal and rent change provisions.
• Check if your community or county has a rent stabilization ordinance that may limit your rent increase.
• Contact your landlord in writing to clarify the reason and amount for any rent increase.
• If you believe the increase is unlawful or retaliation, consider filing a complaint with your city or county housing office.

Official Forms for Maryland Renters

While Maryland does not require a state-issued "rent increase" form, some counties and cities provide official forms related to rental complaints or disputes:

• Montgomery County Rent Increase Complaint Form (No official number)
  • When to use: If you live in Montgomery County and believe your rent increase violates the local stabilization law or minimum notice period.
  • How to use: Complete and submit to the Montgomery County Department of Housing and Community Affairs along with supporting documentation (lease, rent notice).
  • Download the form and instructions
• Maryland Attorney General Consumer Complaint Form (No official number)
  • When to use: For renters throughout Maryland who believe their landlord has acted unfairly or in violation of state housing laws.
  • How to use: Fill out the online form or mail it to the Consumer Protection Division with relevant evidence. Example: A tenant does not receive the required 60-day notice before a rent hike.
  • Access the official complaint form

Which Tribunal Handles Residential Tenancies in Maryland?

Maryland does not have a single statewide housing tribunal. Most rental disputes—including rent increase complaints, eviction cases, and tenant-landlord disagreements—are handled by local Maryland District Courts. For county-specific issues or enforcement of local rent stabilization laws, renters may also contact their county's housing or landlord-tenant office.

Relevant Maryland Rent and Tenancy Laws

• Maryland Real Property Code § 8-213 - Notice of Rent Increase
• Maryland Real Property Code § 8-208 - Residential Leases
• For updated county rules, check your local government’s official housing page.

Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland Rent Control

1. Does Maryland have any rent control or rent stabilization at the state level?
   No. As of 2025, Maryland does not have statewide rent control. Certain areas like Montgomery County have local rent stabilization rules, but most of Maryland does not.
2. How much notice does a landlord have to give before increasing rent?
   For most month-to-month leases statewide, landlords must provide at least 60 days’ written notice before raising rent.
3. Can my landlord raise my rent more than once a year?
   Outside of areas with local caps, there is no statewide limit to the number or size of rent increases a landlord can impose, as long as notice requirements are followed.
4. What should I do if I think my rent increase is illegal or unfair?
   You can file a complaint with your local housing department or the Maryland Attorney General Consumer Protection Division. If you live in Montgomery County, use their Rent Increase Complaint Form.
5. Where are rent disputes handled in Maryland?
   Most rental disputes are processed in your local Maryland District Court. For local rent stabilization issues, your county’s housing department may assist.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Maryland Renters

• Maryland does not have statewide rent control, but select counties may have local rent stabilization rules.
• Landlords must provide written notice before any rent increase, typically 60 days in advance for month-to-month tenants.
• You can access official government forms and file a complaint if you believe your rent increase is unlawful.

Always check both state law and your local ordinances before taking action.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maryland Attorney General - Rights for Renters (info and complaint form)
• Maryland District Courts (find your local court for landlord-tenant cases)
• Montgomery County DHCA - Landlord Tenant Complaints
• For local rules, visit your city or county housing department’s website or contact 2-1-1 Maryland for tenant support services.

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1. Maryland Real Property Code § 8-213 (Notice of Rent Increase)
2. Montgomery County Bill 15-23 (Rent Stabilization Law)
3. Maryland District Courts (Official Landlord-Tenant Tribunal)

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