What is considered an unsafe or hazardous condition in my Maryland rental?

Conditions like severe mold, no heat, unsafe wiring, major leaks, or pest infestations may violate health codes and should be addressed by your landlord.

How do I officially notify my landlord of a housing code violation?

Send a written notice describing the issue and requesting repairs. Use email or letter and keep a copy for your records.

Can I withhold rent if my landlord ignores dangerous repairs?

Do not withhold rent on your own. Use the rent escrow process through the District Court so the court can hold your rent until repairs are made.

What if my landlord tries to evict me for requesting repairs?

Maryland law protects you from retaliatory eviction for reporting unsafe conditions or filing complaints.

Do local Maryland counties have stricter rental health rules?

Many cities and counties add stricter standards, so check your local housing department for specific health codes.

Maryland Rental Health Code Standards: What Renters Need to Know

Health & Safety Standards Maryland published June 21, 2025

Renting a home in Maryland should mean a safe, healthy place to live. Maryland law requires landlords to meet minimum health and safety standards in every residential rental. If you have issues like persistent mold, poor heat, or unsafe conditions, this article explains the health codes that protect you, the steps you can take, and where to get official support—all using clear, up-to-date Maryland rules.

Maryland's Minimum Housing Health Standards for Rentals

Maryland law sets baseline standards ensuring rentals are habitable and safe. These requirements come from both state law and local county codes. Here's what every Maryland renter should expect from their landlord:

Safe Water Supply: Rental units must provide hot and cold running water in kitchens and bathrooms.
Proper Heating: Landlords must provide heat from October 1 through June 1 that reaches at least 65°F in all rooms. (Check your local code for exact temperature or period, as some counties require 68°F.)
Mold and Moisture: Severe mold, excess moisture, and leaks are considered housing code violations and must be addressed promptly.
Sound Structure: Floors, walls, and ceilings must be maintained to protect against weather and pests.
Working Utilities: Electrical, gas, sewer, and plumbing systems must be maintained and in safe working order.
Smoke Detectors: Required in all sleeping areas and every level of the dwelling.
Sanitary Conditions: Waste removal, pest control, and bathroom maintenance are mandatory.

Relevant Maryland Legislation

These standards are established in the Maryland Real Property Code § 8-211 – Repair of Dangerous Defects and statewide landlord-tenant laws. Local health and housing departments may set additional safety codes for your city or county.

How Maryland Handles Rental Safety Complaints

If your landlord is not providing these standards, you have the right to request repairs. If repairs are not made, you can file a complaint or take further action.

First, notify your landlord in writing of the issue and request prompt repairs.
If they do not fix hazardous conditions within a reasonable time (usually 30 days, or sooner for emergencies), you may file a complaint with your local housing or health department.
For dangerous defects that threaten health or safety and are not corrected after written notice, you may also file a "Rent Escrow" action in District Court of Maryland.

Key Forms for Maryland Renters

Maryland District Court Rent Escrow Form (DC-CV-083)
Official Rent Escrow Complaint Form DC-CV-083
When to Use: File this form if your landlord fails to correct hazardous or unsanitary conditions after reasonable written notice. Once accepted, you pay rent into an escrow account while the court reviews your case.
Example: If you have persistent mold or a failing heating system that isn't fixed after you notify your landlord, you can submit this form to your local District Court.
Notice to Landlord About Unsafe Conditions
While not always a standardized form, a written complaint (letter or email) should describe the issue and request prompt repair. Keep copies for your records. Some counties or cities may offer sample complaint letters or online submission portals via their housing departments.

Which Tribunal Handles Rental Issues?

Residential tenancy disputes and rent escrow actions are handled by the District Court of Maryland for the county where the rental property is located.

Tip: Always put repair requests and complaints in writing—and keep a copy. If you need to take further action, these documents are important evidence.

Steps to File a Rent Escrow Complaint in Maryland

Rent escrow allows you to pay your rent to the court if repairs aren't made, holding your landlord accountable and protecting you from retaliation or eviction for reporting unsafe conditions.

Submit written notice to your landlord about the issue and allow time for repairs.
If unresolved after a reasonable time, fill out and submit Rent Escrow Form DC-CV-083 to your local District Court.
Pay future rent payments into the court's escrow account, not to your landlord, until the court resolves your case.
Attend your court date and bring evidence (notices, photos, and any correspondence).

This process is designed to encourage timely repairs and keep your living space healthy and safe.

FAQ: Maryland Rental Health & Safety Standards

What is considered an unsafe or hazardous condition in my Maryland rental?
Examples include severe mold, lack of heat or running water, exposed wiring, pest infestations, or major leaks. If these affect your health or safety, they may be violations under state and local codes.
How do I officially notify my landlord of a housing code violation?
Provide detailed written notice via letter or email, describing the issue and requesting repairs. Include dates, details, and photos if possible. Save a copy for your records.
Can I withhold rent if my landlord ignores dangerous repairs?
Never withhold rent directly. Instead, use the rent escrow process through the District Court of Maryland—the court will hold your rent and decide the outcome.
What should I do if the landlord tries to evict me for filing a complaint?
Retaliatory eviction is illegal. If you’re threatened with eviction after making good-faith complaints, you have legal protections under Maryland's Retaliatory Eviction laws.
Do counties or cities have stricter standards than Maryland state law?
Yes, many local health departments have additional codes—such as higher minimum heat or stricter mold requirements. Check with your local housing office for specifics.

Conclusion: Renting Safe and Healthy in Maryland

Maryland law sets clear health and safety standards that every landlord must follow.
If your rental is unsafe or unfit, use written notice and rent escrow to protect your rights.
For support, contact your county housing department or the District Court of Maryland.

Know that you are protected by Maryland's minimum housing health codes as a renter. If problems arise, there are clear steps to seek repairs and legal support without risking your home.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development: State guidance and renter resources
District Court of Maryland: Rent escrow filings, tenant complaints, and housing case information
Maryland Department of the Environment: Mold Information
Montgomery County Office of Landlord-Tenant Affairs (for county-specific support)