Maryland Rules for Apartment Showings While Moving Out

When you’re preparing to move out of a Maryland rental, your landlord may want to show your apartment to prospective tenants. It’s important to understand your rights, especially regarding notice, your privacy, and what steps you can take if there’s a dispute.

Landlord Entry to Show the Apartment

Under Maryland law, landlords are allowed to enter an apartment to show the unit to new renters or buyers, but reasonable advance notice is required. The notice period and entry conditions are designed to protect your right to quiet enjoyment—meaning your ability to use and enjoy your home peacefully.

What Does 'Reasonable Notice' Mean?

Maryland does not set a fixed number of hours for notice in its statewide laws. However, most counties recommend at least 24 hours' advance notice for non-emergency entry, including for showings.^[1] The notice should:

• Be given in writing (email, text, or letter recommended for documentation)
• State the purpose (e.g., showing to new tenants or buyers)
• Specify the date and approximate time of entry

Always check your own lease agreement, as some leases may require more specific notice or additional conditions.

Your Rights During Apartment Showings

While your landlord can show the apartment, you still have control over:

• Requesting a mutually convenient time (especially if you're packing or have unique needs)
• Being present during the showing (optional, but allowed)
• Expecting the landlord to respect your privacy and possessions

If the Landlord Does Not Give Proper Notice

If your landlord tries to enter without reasonable notice or at inconvenient times, this could be considered a violation of your rights. Maryland law protects renters from unlawful entry and harassment.

If informal communication fails, you may:

• Document all entries, notices, and communications with your landlord
• Contact the local office of the Maryland Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division for mediation
• File a complaint or take further legal action if necessary

Key State Laws and Official Tribunal

Landlord-tenant disputes in Maryland are generally heard in the Maryland District Court, which handles residential tenancy matters across the state.

The primary legislation governing these situations is the Maryland Code, Real Property, Title 8. This code outlines landlord and tenant responsibilities, including quiet enjoyment and conditions for entry.^[2]

Official Forms: Notice and Complaint Options

• Maryland District Court Form DC-CV-082: Complaint for Tenant's Failure to Pay Rent
  Used by landlords, but tenants can file related responses if an eviction process results from disputes about showings or other lease issues. Access the official form.
• Notice to Landlord (no state form number)
  Tenants may use a written notice (letter or email) to formally object or express concerns if the landlord shows the apartment without proper notice. No standard state form, but documenting objections in writing is important.
• Maryland Attorney General Mediation Request
  If communication fails, tenants may request consumer mediation. Visit the Consumer Protection Division complaint portal for more details.

While there is no universal Maryland tenant "entry objection" form, putting concerns in writing—dated, signed, and delivered in a trackable way—gives you valuable documentation if further action is needed.

How to Respond if You Feel Your Rights Were Violated

Most disputes can be resolved through communication. If not, these steps can help:

• Keep a record of all incidents, notices, and correspondence
• Contact a local tenants' association or legal aid office for guidance
• If needed, file a complaint with the Maryland Attorney General using their official complaint form

Summary: Tenants are entitled to reasonable notice for showings. If this right is not observed, you have accessible support and clear next steps.

FAQs: Apartment Showings in Maryland

1. Can my landlord enter my apartment whenever they want to show it?
   No. In Maryland, landlords must give reasonable advance notice, typically at least 24 hours, before entering for showings.
2. What should I do if my landlord shows the apartment without notice?
   Document the incident, communicate your concerns in writing, and seek mediation or file a complaint if the issue is not resolved.
3. Can I refuse showings if I’m packing or have privacy concerns?
   You can request a more convenient time, but in most cases, you cannot refuse all access if proper notice is given and the request is reasonable.
4. Is there a standard form for tenants objecting to showings?
   Maryland does not have a state-issued objection form, but you can send a written letter or email to your landlord expressing your concerns and proposed solutions.
5. What if a landlord keeps disrupting my move-out process?
   Keep thorough records and seek help from the Maryland Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division or consider small claims court if necessary.

Conclusion: What Maryland Renters Should Remember

• Landlords must provide reasonable notice before entering your apartment for showings.
• If you feel your rights are not respected, communicate your concerns in writing and use official support channels if needed.
• Always document communications and contact local agencies for assistance.

Understanding and asserting your legal rights helps protect your privacy while making your move-out process smoother.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Maryland

• Maryland Courts Landlord-Tenant Information
• Maryland Attorney General – Landlord/Tenant Rights
• Consumer Protection Division Complaint Portal
• Maryland Tenants' Rights Guide (Attorney General PDF)

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1. See Montgomery County, MD Office of Landlord-Tenant Affairs: Official FAQ on Landlord Entry
2. Maryland Code, Real Property, Title 8 – Landlord and Tenant

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