Maryland Security Deposit Laws: Tenant Rights & Protections

Understanding your rights as a renter in Maryland can help you avoid unfair security deposit deductions and address landlord disputes effectively. Maryland law offers clear protections for security deposits, dictating how much can be charged, how funds must be handled, and your options if disagreements arise. Here’s what every Maryland renter should know about their security deposit rights.

Key Security Deposit Rules for Renters

Security deposits are funds paid to landlords as financial protection against damage, unpaid rent, or other lease violations. In Maryland, specific laws govern these deposits to protect renters:

• Maximum amount: Landlords may not require more than two months’ rent as a security deposit.^[1]
• Receipts required: Landlords must provide a written receipt for your security deposit payment. If they do not, you can ask for one at any time during your lease.
• Separate bank account: Landlords must keep your deposit in a Maryland bank account exclusively for that purpose and may not mix it with personal funds.
• Interest accrual: Deposits held for at least six months must accrue annual interest. This interest must be returned to you along with your deposit.

These protections are set by the Maryland Code, Real Property § 8-203.^[1]

When and How Security Deposits Must Be Returned

Maryland law requires your landlord to return your security deposit, plus any interest, within 45 days after you move out and return possession of the property. If your landlord intends to withhold any portion due to damages, unpaid rent, or other legal reasons, they must send an itemized written list of these deductions within the same 45-day period.

• If you do not receive your deposit on time or disagree with deductions, you have rights to challenge the decision.
• Unlawful withholding can make a landlord liable for up to three times the amount wrongfully withheld, plus reasonable attorney’s fees.

Always provide your forwarding address in writing as soon as you move out to avoid delays.

Inspections, Deductions, and Damage Disputes

Here are a few things to keep in mind regarding inspections and how security deposit deductions are handled in Maryland:

• Your landlord must notify you in writing of your right to be present during the final inspection—which checks for damages and needed repairs—at least 15 days before the eviction or end of lease date.
• If you wish to attend, you must inform the landlord in writing so the inspection can be scheduled.
• Normal wear and tear (such as minor carpet wear or faded paint) cannot be deducted from your deposit.
• Excessive damages, cleaning costs (beyond normal), unpaid rent, or other lease breaches may result in deductions, but must be itemized and documented.

Relevant Official Forms

• Complaint Form (DC-CV-082):
  • When to Use: If your landlord withholds your security deposit or makes unauthorized deductions, you can use the Complaint Form DC-CV-082 to file a civil claim in the Maryland District Court.
  • Example: Suppose you moved out and disagree with $400 deducted for painting, which you believe is normal wear and tear; you can file this form to contest the charge.
  • Official Source: Maryland DC-CV-082 Complaint Form (PDF)

To submit, fill out the form and file it at your local Maryland District Court location.

Who Handles Rental Disputes in Maryland?

Residential tenancy disputes, including those over security deposits, are handled by the Maryland District Court. This court hears landlord-tenant cases throughout the state. You can find more resources and filing instructions through the Maryland Courts Landlord/Tenant Help page.

FAQ: Maryland Security Deposits

1. How much can my landlord charge for a security deposit in Maryland?
   Maryland law caps security deposits at two months’ rent, no matter what your lease states.^[1]
2. How soon should my deposit be returned after moving out?
   Your landlord must return your security deposit, plus any interest, within 45 days of the end of your tenancy.^[1]
3. What should I do if my landlord takes unfair deductions from my deposit?
   You can seek mediation, or file a complaint in your local Maryland District Court for recovery of your deposit.
4. Can my landlord deduct for normal wear and tear?
   No. Only damages beyond normal wear and tear, unpaid rent, or breach of lease can be deducted.
5. Is interest paid on all security deposits in Maryland?
   If your deposit is held for at least six months, the landlord must pay you interest when returning your deposit.

Conclusion: What Maryland Renters Should Know

• Security deposits in Maryland are tightly regulated: know your deposit limit and demand a receipt.
• You are entitled to a timely return—with interest—unless clear, documented deductions apply.
• If you feel your rights are violated, official forms and the courts are available as remedies.

A little preparation and understanding of these laws can keep your deposit protected and your rental experience smoother.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maryland Courts Landlord/Tenant Legal Help – Information and assistance on rental disputes.
• Maryland District Court – Find your local court and file rental claims.
• Maryland Attorney General: Consumer Protection Landlord-Tenant Guide – Understand your rights in plain language.
• Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development – Statewide housing programs and advocacy.

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1. Maryland Code, Real Property § 8-203 – Security Deposits law
2. Maryland Courts – Landlord/Tenant Help
3. Maryland District Court
4. Maryland DC-CV-082 Complaint Form
5. Maryland Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Guide

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