Maryland Tenant Move-Out Walk-Through Checklist Guide

Planning to move out of your Maryland rental? Completing a final walk-through is a vital step before handing back your keys. This guide covers what renters should look for, how the process works in Maryland, and practical steps you can take to protect your deposit and avoid misunderstandings with your landlord.

Understanding the Final Walk-Through in Maryland

The final walk-through is a joint inspection of your rental unit, typically conducted just before or on your move-out day. It’s an opportunity for both you and your landlord to review the property's condition together and document any potential damage or issues beyond normal wear and tear.

Why Is This Step Important?

• Document the property’s state to help ensure the return of your security deposit.
• Identify damages or cleaning issues you may be responsible for.
• Create a fair record in case of disputes.

Maryland Law: Move-Out Inspections & Tenant Rights

Under the Maryland Code, Real Property § 8-203, landlords must offer tenants the option to be present for a final inspection. You must notify your landlord in writing of your move-out date, and the landlord must inform you when the inspection will occur. This gives you a fair chance to address any concerns and helps protect your security deposit rights.

How to Request a Final Walk-Through

• Send a written request to your landlord stating your wish to attend the move-out inspection.
• Provide notice of your expected move-out date. Maryland law requires you to do this so your landlord can schedule the inspection within five days before or after you move.
• Keep copies of all correspondence for your records.

Maryland Tenant Final Walk-Through Checklist

Before your inspection, use this checklist to review the property yourself:

• Clean thoroughly: floors, walls, appliances, fixtures, and windows.
• Repair or report all damages beyond normal wear and tear (holes in walls, broken tiles, etc.).
• Remove all personal belongings and trash from the premises.
• Check smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms are in working order.
• Return all keys, remotes, or access devices to your landlord.
• Document the condition with date-stamped photos or videos as evidence.
• Check for unpaid utilities or outstanding bills, and keep receipts.

Reviewing this list helps prevent disputes when your landlord completes the official inspection, and strengthens your case for getting your deposit refunded in full.

Practical Example: Security Deposit Disputes

If your landlord claims damages you believe are normal wear and tear, having documentation and a completed checklist can support your argument if you need to file a complaint or request a hearing.

Official Forms for Maryland Tenants

• Move-Out Notice: This is a written notification you send to your landlord specifying your intended move-out date. There is no official statewide form, but you can use the sample template provided by the Maryland Office of the Attorney General as guidance.
• Security Deposit Complaint (Form DC-CV-083): If your security deposit is wrongfully withheld or deductions are not justified, you may file this form in district court.
  Practical example: If you perform a walk-through and still have your entire deposit withheld, you may use Form DC-CV-083 (Complaint for Return of Wrongfully Withheld Security Deposit) to begin the process of reclaiming your money.

The official body handling residential tenancy disputes in Maryland is the Maryland District Court, which oversees landlord-tenant cases and deposit complaints statewide.

What Happens After the Walk-Through?

After the walk-through, your landlord will use your inspection and their own findings to determine if any legitimate deductions will be made from your security deposit. Maryland law requires landlords to return your security deposit, minus any justified deductions, within 45 days of moving out. They must also provide an itemized statement of any charges.

Know Your Rights as a Maryland Renter

• You are entitled to attend the move-out inspection.
• Your landlord must provide written notice of the inspection date and time.
• If you disagree with deductions, you have a right to file a complaint in Maryland District Court.

1. Do I have to attend the walk-through with my landlord?
   You are not required to be present, but attending helps ensure any issues are honestly documented and gives you an opportunity to address concerns on the spot.
2. What if my landlord refuses a walk-through or doesn't provide notice?
   Maryland law requires landlords to offer you the option. If your landlord does not comply, note this in your records and consider seeking assistance from the District Court or local consumer protection office.
3. How soon do I get my security deposit back?
   Landlords in Maryland must return your deposit within 45 days after you move out, providing an itemized list of deductions if any are made.
4. What if there's a dispute over damages?
   If you disagree with your landlord’s deductions, you may file a Security Deposit Complaint (DC-CV-083) with the Maryland District Court.
5. Where do I find more information about my rights?
   Check the Maryland Attorney General’s Guide to Landlord-Tenant Rights for renters, or contact your local District Court.

Summary: Key Takeaways for Maryland Tenants

• Complete a thorough walk-through and request to attend your landlord's inspection.
• Document everything with photos and by using a written checklist.
• Know your legal protections under the Maryland Real Property Code and use official forms if needed.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maryland Office of the Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Rights – Clear guides on security deposits, inspections, and tenant protections
• Maryland Courts Landlord-Tenant Help – Filing complaints, retrieving forms, and understanding court processes
• Local County Landlord-Tenant Affairs Offices (e.g., Montgomery County) – Advice, complaint mediation, and local rights information
• State Tribunal: Maryland District Court (handles tenancy and deposit cases)

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1. Maryland Code, Real Property § 8-203: Security Deposits Law
2. Maryland Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Guide: Rental Rights & Security Deposits
3. Security Deposit Complaint Form DC-CV-083: Official Form PDF
4. Maryland Courts District Court: Landlord-Tenant Division

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