Maryland Renter Rights: Security Deposit Retaliation Explained

If you’re renting in Maryland, understanding your rights regarding your security deposit is essential—especially if you worry your landlord might try to withhold it unfairly, as revenge for standing up for your rights. Maryland law protects renters from this form of landlord retaliation.

What is Security Deposit Retaliation?

Retaliation occurs when a landlord tries to "get back" at a tenant—for example, by keeping your security deposit—because you exercised a legal right. In Maryland, the law specifically protects renters from this behavior.

Maryland Security Deposit Protections

Maryland law requires landlords to return your security deposit, minus legitimate deductions (like unpaid rent or property damage), within 45 days of lease termination. If you believe your landlord withheld your deposit as revenge (such as after you complained to a housing authority or requested repairs), you have rights and options.

What Does the Law Say?

• Landlords cannot keep your security deposit to punish you for exercising your rights, such as reporting health or safety code violations.
• Retaliatory actions are illegal, including denying deposit refunds, sudden rent increases, or threats of eviction for exercising protected rights.
• See full law: Maryland Code, Real Property § 8–203 and § 8-208.1 (Retaliatory Eviction).

When is Withholding a Security Deposit Considered Retaliation?

If a landlord keeps your deposit (without valid reason) after you’ve:

• Reported unsafe conditions or code violations to a government agency
• Joined a tenant organization
• Requested repairs in writing
• Asserted rights granted by state or local law

...this may be considered retaliation. The law is on your side in these situations.

Action Steps for Maryland Renters

If you think your security deposit is being withheld as retaliation, follow these steps:

• Request a written explanation for the withheld deposit; landlords are legally required to provide this within 45 days.
• Keep copies of all correspondence, repair requests, and government complaints.
• Document the condition of your unit with photos at move-out and keep proof the deposit was paid.
• Consider filing a complaint or taking legal action if unfairly denied your deposit.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

• Complaint for Return of Security Deposit (DC-CV-082)
  • When to use: If your landlord fails to return your deposit or you believe retaliation is involved.
  • How to use: Complete the Complaint for Return of Security Deposit (DC-CV-082) and file it with the District Court. For example, if your landlord withholds your deposit after you reported code violations, use this form to start your case.
  • Official resource: Maryland Courts Landlord-Tenant Resources

Where to Get Help: Maryland Tribunal for Tenancy Disputes

The District Court of Maryland handles all residential landlord-tenant cases, including disputes over security deposits and claims of retaliation. You can find information about filing, court locations, and support services on the Maryland Courts Landlord-Tenant Page.

FAQ: Maryland Renters' Rights and Security Deposit Retaliation

1. What is considered security deposit retaliation?
   Security deposit retaliation means a landlord keeps part or all of your deposit because you exercised your legal rights, like reporting issues or filing a complaint.
2. How quickly should my landlord return the security deposit in Maryland?
   By law, your landlord must return your deposit (with a written list of any deductions) within 45 days after your lease ends and you vacate the property.
3. What should I do if my landlord withholds my deposit as revenge?
   Document everything and use the official "Complaint for Return of Security Deposit" form (DC-CV-082) to take your case to Maryland District Court.
4. Can I be evicted for demanding my security deposit back?
   No. Landlords are not permitted to evict or threaten eviction solely because you requested your security deposit or exercised your tenant rights.
5. Which agency handles security deposit disputes in Maryland?
   The District Court of Maryland is responsible for residential tenancy disputes—including security deposit issues.

Key Takeaways for Maryland Renters

• Maryland law prohibits landlords from withholding security deposits out of retaliation.
• Document all communications and take action quickly if you suspect your rights have been violated.
• The District Court of Maryland and official complaint forms are available to protect and assert your rights.

Remember, you have legal protections if your landlord tries to retaliate by unfairly keeping your deposit.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maryland Courts: Landlord-Tenant Information – Details about court procedures and tenant resources.
• Maryland Security Deposit Laws – Full text of the official statute.
• Maryland Department of Labor: Security Deposit FAQ
• Legal aid: Contact Maryland Legal Aid for guidance and support if you cannot afford a lawyer.

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1. See Maryland Code, Real Property § 8–203
2. See Maryland Code, Real Property § 8–208.1 (Retaliatory Eviction)
3. Official court forms: Complaint for Return of Security Deposit (DC-CV-082)

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