Maryland Student Renter Rights: Laws, Leases & Protections

Many college students in Maryland rent off-campus housing or university-sponsored apartments. Understanding your rights and responsibilities as a student renter is crucial, especially if you’re facing issues like repairs, sudden lease changes, or eviction. This article explains key protections, official forms, and action steps you can take under Maryland law.

Who Is Covered and Basic Renter Rights

Whether you rent in a campus-affiliated apartment, private housing, or share a unit with roommates, you have legal protections under Maryland law. Student renters are protected by the same tenants’ rights as other renters, provided there’s a landlord-tenant relationship.

• Maryland's Maryland Code, Real Property Title 8 governs most residential leases, including student housing¹.
• University-owned or managed housing may have extra rules, but state law still applies in most cases.
• Discrimination due to age, race, gender, disability, or familial status is illegal. The Maryland Commission on Civil Rights enforces these protections.

In summary: If you have a written or verbal lease in Maryland, even short-term or semester-based, you are a tenant with legal rights.

Leases: What to Look for and Common Issues

Most student renters in Maryland sign a fixed-term lease, often for nine or twelve months. Here are essential lease points to check:

• Names on the lease: Make sure all tenants/roommates are listed.
• Length of lease: Standard terms are enforceable unless otherwise agreed in writing.
• Security deposits: By Maryland law, security deposits must not exceed two months' rent. Landlords must provide receipts and, when you move out, an itemized list of deductions. See Maryland Attorney General Security Deposit Information.
• Renewal and early termination: Some student leases automatically renew unless notice is given. Read clauses carefully and notify your landlord in writing if you do not wish to renew.
• Utilities and roommates: Who pays which bills, and what happens if one roommate leaves?

When problems arise—such as surprise rent increases, difficulties in getting repairs, or landlord entry without notice—your protections under Maryland tenancy law help you address these issues.

Maintenance and Repairs: Your Rights and Steps to Take

Landlords must provide a safe, habitable living environment. Basic responsibilities include fixing leaking roofs, heating problems, pests, and providing smoke detectors. If your landlord isn’t making repairs:

• Notify your landlord in writing and keep a copy for your records.
• If the problem isn’t fixed in a reasonable time, you may be able to file for “rent escrow.” This allows you to pay rent into court until repairs are made.

Maryland Rent Escrow: Official Form and Process

To file for rent escrow, student renters can use the Complaint for Rent Escrow/To Compel Repairs (DC-CV-083) form. You can obtain it from the Maryland Courts Landlord-Tenant Forms page.

• When to use: If serious conditions (like lack of heat or water) are not repaired after reasonable notice.
• How to use: Submit this form at your local District Court. The court may hold your rent in escrow and order repairs.
• Download the Complaint for Rent Escrow/To Compel Repairs (DC-CV-083)

Eviction: Important Protections for Student Renters

Maryland law lays out a strict process for eviction. Your landlord cannot remove you without a court order. Reasons for eviction include nonpayment of rent or major lease violations, but landlords must follow these steps:

• Provide a written “Notice to Quit” (form not required by statute, but notice is required for some cases).
• File a complaint with the Maryland District Court if not resolved.
• You have the right to attend the court hearing and present your case.

For evictions due to nonpayment of rent, the standard complaint is Failure to Pay Rent (DC-CV-082). Only a sheriff or court official may carry out a physical eviction, never the landlord directly.

What Tribunal Handles Maryland Renters’ Cases?

The Maryland District Court manages all landlord-tenant disputes, including student housing and rent escrow cases. You can find your local court at the Maryland District Court Locations Directory.

For most off-campus housing issues—including repairs, security deposits, and eviction complaints—the District Court is your official resource and decision-maker.

Official Maryland Forms for Student Renters

• Complaint for Rent Escrow/To Compel Repairs (DC-CV-083): For use when repairs are not completed. Get the form
• Failure to Pay Rent (DC-CV-082): Used by landlords to begin eviction for nonpayment, but renters should be aware of the process. See the form
• Petition for Return of Possession – Security Deposit (DC-CV-085): If your security deposit is not properly returned. Access the form

See full instructions on filing these forms and more information at the Maryland Courts Landlord-Tenant Help page.

FAQ: Student Housing Rights in Maryland

1. Can my landlord evict me without notice?
   No. Under Maryland law, eviction requires proper written notice and a court order. Your landlord must follow the legal process.
2. What can I do if my landlord isn’t fixing serious problems?
   You can formally request repairs. If problems remain, you may file for rent escrow using the DC-CV-083 form at District Court.
3. Do security deposit rules apply to student leases?
   Yes. Maryland limits security deposits to two months' rent and requires itemized deductions and prompt return after you move out.
4. What if my roommate leaves early and we’re all on the lease?
   All tenants remain responsible unless your lease says otherwise; try to get an agreement in writing if one roommate leaves.
5. Are there different rules for university vs. private housing?
   Most state renter protections apply to both; university-owned housing may have additional rules, but not less than state law.

Key Takeaways

• Student renters in Maryland have strong legal protections under state law, including rules on eviction, repairs, and deposits.
• Make sure you document communications and use official forms when needed—these are your best evidence and protection.
• The Maryland District Court is the authority for tenant disputes; their online resources and court locations can help you take action.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maryland Courts Landlord-Tenant Help – Forms and plain-language guides for tenants
• Find Your Local Maryland District Court
• Maryland Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Rights
• Maryland Commission on Civil Rights (Fair Housing)
• University of Maryland Student Legal Aid Office (available to UMCP students)

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1. Maryland Code, Real Property Title 8 – Landlord and Tenant
2. Maryland Courts Landlord-Tenant Help
3. Maryland Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Rights
4. Maryland Commission on Civil Rights – Fair Housing
5. Maryland District Court Locations

Categories

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