Maryland Tenant Rights for Short-Term Vacation Rentals

If you're renting a short-term vacation property in Maryland—like those listed on Airbnb or VRBO—it's important to understand your rights as a tenant. Maryland law provides specific protections for renters, even for leases under 90 days. This guide will help you navigate issues such as eviction, deposits, maintenance, and dispute resolution for short-term vacation rentals in the state.

Understanding Short-Term Vacation Rentals in Maryland

In Maryland, a short-term rental generally refers to occupying a property for less than 90 days. These arrangements—often made through online platforms or private agreements—are covered by a mix of state and local laws. While Maryland's main rental law, the Maryland Code, Real Property Title 8, provides many renter protections, some rules differ for shorter leases.

Key Protections for Short-Term Renters

• Written agreements: Always request a written rental contract, even for a brief stay. This helps clarify rent, deposits, and other terms.
• Security deposits: Landlords can collect a security deposit but must return it (minus legitimate damages) within 45 days of move-out. Deposits cannot exceed two months' rent.
• Safe and habitable premises: Landlords must keep the rental safe and fit for living throughout your stay.
• Eviction process: Even for short-term renters, landlords must follow legal notice and court procedures before eviction.

Local counties and cities—like Baltimore or Montgomery County—may have extra rules. Always check with your local housing office for specifics.

Eviction and Notice Rules for Short-Term Rentals

If your host/landlord wants to remove you from the property before your agreed move-out date, they generally must:

• Provide written notice (timeframe depends on the reason)
• File a complaint with the local District Court
• Obtain a court judgment before changing locks or removing your belongings

Self-help evictions (meaning the landlord locks you out or removes your items without a court order) are illegal in Maryland. For more information, see the Maryland Judiciary Landlord-Tenant Help Center.

Official Forms

• Failure to Pay Rent – Landlord’s Complaint (Form DC-CV-082)
  Access the official form here.
  This is used by landlords if a tenant fails to pay rent (even for short-term stays). If you receive a copy, it means your landlord is seeking legal eviction. Respond promptly and, if possible, seek legal advice.
• Tenant's Counterclaim/Defense/Setoff to Complaint for Summary Ejectment (Form DC-CV-094)
  Access the official form here.
  As a tenant, use this form to explain any legal reasons why you should not be evicted (e.g., the rent is paid, the home isn't habitable) after receiving an eviction complaint.

Security Deposits and Maintenance Issues

• Security deposit return: Landlords must return your security deposit within 45 days after move-out, minus any lawful deductions. You have a right to request an itemized list of deductions in writing.
• Maintenance and repairs: If the property is unsafe or repairs are needed, notify the owner in writing. If problems are not addressed, contact your local housing department or consider using your right to withhold rent (legal advice is recommended).

If you believe a landlord has wrongfully withheld your deposit, you may file a claim in the Maryland District Court. Read the official guidance on security deposits from Maryland Courts.

Where to Resolve Disputes

The official tribunal that handles landlord-tenant disputes in Maryland is the Maryland District Court. Most eviction and security deposit cases for short-term rentals take place here. For local assistance, contact your county's Office of Housing and Community Development.

FAQ: Maryland Short-Term Rental Tenant Rights

1. Do I have tenant rights if I rent a vacation property for only a few weeks?
   Yes. Maryland law covers short-term rentals, and you still have rights to a safe, habitable space and formal eviction protections.
2. How can I get my security deposit back after my stay?
   Landlords must return your deposit within 45 days, minus damages. Request a written accounting if deductions are made, and file a small claim if it's withheld wrongfully.
3. Can a landlord evict me without a court order in Maryland?
   No. All evictions, even for short-term stays, must go through the Maryland District Court. Landlords can't lock you out or remove your items without a legal process.
4. What should I do if my rental has unsafe conditions?
   Notify your landlord in writing right away. If there's no response, contact your county housing department or file a complaint with the District Court.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Maryland Short-Term Renters

• Short-term vacation renters in Maryland have legal protections, including fair eviction procedures and deposit return rights.
• Always keep copies of your rental agreement, payment receipts, and any written communications about repairs.
• For disputes or emergencies, reach out to local resources or the Maryland District Court.

Understanding your rights helps ensure a safe, fair experience when renting vacation properties in Maryland.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maryland Judiciary Landlord-Tenant Help Center: Free guidance for renters on court processes
• Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development: Support with housing concerns and disputes
• Maryland Attorney General - Landlord & Tenant Guide: Consumer protection info for tenants
• Find Your Local Maryland District Court

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1. Maryland Code, Real Property Title 8 – Landlord and Tenant
2. Maryland Judiciary Landlord-Tenant Information
3. Failure to Pay Rent Form DC-CV-082
4. Tenant's Counterclaim/Defense/Setoff Form DC-CV-094
5. Maryland Courts – Security Deposit Guidance

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