Maryland Rent Control Updates: What Renters Should Know

As housing affordability continues to be a concern, Maryland renters are increasingly interested in the state’s approach to rent control and rent stabilization. With evolving local policies and ongoing state-level discussions, understanding your rights and the possible future changes is essential for Maryland tenants wanting to protect their homes and finances.

Current Rent Control Status in Maryland

Maryland does not have a statewide rent control law as of 2024. However, some counties and cities have implemented temporary or permanent rent caps, especially in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. For example:

• Montgomery County: Passed the Permanent Rent Stabilization Law in 2023, which limits most annual rent increases to the county's Voluntary Rent Guideline, adjusted yearly.
• Prince George’s County: Adopted a temporary rent cap through the Rent Stabilization Act of 2023, restricting increases to 3% for one year (until April 2024).

Other cities and counties may consider or implement similar legislation, so check with your local government for the latest updates.

The Future of Rent Control Legislation in Maryland

Recent debates in the Maryland General Assembly have brought rent stabilization into focus, though no law has yet passed at the state level. Lawmakers and advocacy groups are evaluating the following:

• Whether to introduce a statewide rent control standard
• Providing more local authority for counties and cities to enact rent restrictions
• Balancing protections for renters with the concerns of landlords and property managers

For now, renters should monitor bills in the Maryland General Assembly. You can track legislation via the Maryland General Assembly’s official site.

Your Rights and Resources Under Current Maryland Law

Even in the absence of statewide rent control, you are protected against sharp rent increases under certain circumstances and entitled to fair notice. Maryland’s main tenancy law is the Maryland Code, Real Property, Title 8 (Landlord and Tenant)^[1].

Key Provisions for Renters

• Landlords must generally give at least one month’s written notice before increasing rent on month-to-month leases^[2].
• Local jurisdictions may have stricter rules—for example, Montgomery County limits the amount of the increase each year.
• Retaliation for reporting code violations or requesting repairs is illegal.

Important Forms and How to Use Them

• Complaint for Rent Escrow (Form DC-CV-083): If your landlord fails to make urgent repairs, use this form to ask the court to order repairs or withhold rent.
  Example: If your apartment lacks heat in the winter and the landlord does not respond, file this form in the appropriate District Court.
  Official Form DC-CV-083 (Maryland Courts)
• Petition for Action by Tenant (Montgomery County): If you believe your landlord violated the county’s rent stabilization law, you can submit a petition through the Montgomery County Office of Landlord-Tenant Affairs.
  Submit a Tenant Complaint

The District Court of Maryland manages rent escrow and related filings statewide.

Where to Turn for Landlord-Tenant Issues

Maryland’s official body for most residential tenancy disputes is the District Court of Maryland, which hears cases about rent escrow, landlord violations, and evictions.

FAQ: Maryland Rent Control and Your Rights

1. Is there statewide rent control in Maryland?
   No. Maryland does not have statewide rent control, but certain counties and cities—like Montgomery and Prince George’s—have their own rules.
2. How much can my landlord increase the rent?
   In most places, there’s no state cap, but local rules may limit increases. Montgomery County, for example, has an annual guideline. Always request notice of any increase in writing.
3. Can I dispute an excessive rent increase?
   Yes. File a complaint with your local Office of Landlord-Tenant Affairs or, for legally covered areas, use the petition process described above.
4. Where do I file tenant complaints in Maryland?
   You may file with the District Court of Maryland for legal actions, or use your county’s Office of Landlord-Tenant Affairs for rent issues.
5. What happens if rent control laws change?
   Landlords must comply with all new regulations. Stay updated via the Maryland General Assembly website and local agency resources.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• Maryland currently has no statewide rent control, but local rules may protect you from sharp rent increases
• Always ask for written notice of rent changes and save all communications
• Monitor state and local developments for future changes to renter protections

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• District Court of Maryland – For rent escrow, eviction, and tenant complaints
• Montgomery County Office of Landlord-Tenant Affairs – Complaint submissions and local rent stabilization info
• Prince George’s County Landlord-Tenant Information – Local rules and support
• Maryland General Assembly – Track statewide legislative updates
• Maryland Courts: Forms and Filings

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1. Maryland Code, Real Property
2. Landlord-Tenant: Residential (Maryland Courts)

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