Maryland Transitional Housing: Tenant Rights & Protections

Understanding your tenant rights in transitional housing can be challenging, especially in Maryland, where rules can differ from standard rentals. Transitional housing offers a temporary place to live for those leaving homelessness, domestic violence, or substance abuse programs. This article explains your rights, protections, and resources as a transitional housing renter in Maryland, with links to official government information.

What Is Transitional Housing in Maryland?

Transitional housing refers to temporary residency, often provided by nonprofits or public agencies, supporting individuals as they move toward stable, long-term housing. Common features include:

• Short, fixed-term stays (often 3–24 months)
• Supportive services (like counseling or job training)
• Rules that may differ from regular apartments

While Maryland law does not always treat transitional housing exactly like standard landlord-tenant relationships, renters still have important rights and responsibilities.

Tenant Rights in Maryland Transitional Housing

Rental rules for transitional housing can be complex. Depending on your program, you may have rights under:

• Maryland's landlord-tenant laws
• The rules and agreements set by your transitional housing provider (sometimes called a "program agreement")
• Local and federal housing protections (especially if federally funded)

Transitional housing tenants in Maryland generally have these core rights:

• Clear information about program rules and duration of stay
• A safe and habitable living environment
• The right to due process before any eviction or removal
• Freedom from illegal discrimination under state and federal law

Eviction and Discharge Protections

Unlike standard rentals, transitional housing programs may have their own policies for removing residents, usually called "discharge" rather than eviction. However, if a program acts as a landlord, Maryland's residential eviction laws may apply:

• You generally must receive written notice before being removed.
• The provider may be required to seek a court order through the Maryland District Court if you do not leave voluntarily.
• If the program is federally funded, you may also be protected by federal housing rights.

If you receive a notice to leave and believe your rights are being violated, you can:

• Request written details about why you are being discharged
• Contact a legal aid organization or the Maryland People's Law Library for help
• Attend any required hearings and present your side

Maintenance and Repairs

Transitional housing tenants are entitled to a safe, livable environment. Providers must address serious maintenance issues (such as mold, leaks, or lack of heat). If repairs are not completed after notice, you may:

• Submit a formal written repair request to the housing provider
• File a rent escrow complaint in the District Court of Maryland using Form DC-CV-083: Complaint in Action of Rent Escrow. For more details and the form itself, see the official Maryland Courts form.

Example: If there is a dangerous water leak in your unit, and repeated requests to staff are ignored, you may use Form DC-CV-083 to ask the court to hold your rent in escrow until repairs are made.

Filing a Complaint or Legal Action

If you face illegal eviction, unsafe conditions, or discrimination, you can take the following steps:

• Contact the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights to report housing discrimination
• File a formal complaint in Maryland District Court for issues like wrongful eviction (use Form DC-CV-082: Complaint and Summons Against Tenant— download the form here)

For legal process questions, the Maryland District Court is the official tribunal for residential housing cases. Visit their tenant-landlord help page for more guidance.

Relevant Official Forms for Transitional Housing Tenants

• Form DC-CV-083: Complaint in Action of Rent Escrow — For requesting rent to be held by the court while repairs are needed. See official form and instructions.
• Form DC-CV-082: Complaint and Summons Against Tenant — Used by landlords to seek court eviction; tenants can review this form to understand what an official eviction action in court looks like. Official form download.
• For discrimination, use the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights housing discrimination complaint form.

Always submit forms directly to the appropriate court or agency, following the instructions on the official government site.

FAQ: Maryland Transitional Housing Tenant Rights

1. Do Maryland landlord-tenant laws apply to all transitional housing?
   Not always—some programs have different rules, but many basic renter protections still apply. It's important to review your program agreement and seek legal advice if needed.
2. Can I be evicted from transitional housing without notice?
   No, you should receive written notice explaining why you are being asked to leave. If you disagree, you may have the right to a hearing or court review.
3. What should I do if repairs are ignored in my transitional housing?
   Submit written requests and, if not addressed, file a rent escrow complaint using Form DC-CV-083 in District Court.
4. Who helps resolve housing disputes in Maryland?
   The Maryland District Court handles landlord-tenant cases; legal aid services and the Commission on Civil Rights also provide support.
5. What laws protect tenants in Maryland transitional housing?
   The Maryland Code, Real Property Article (§8-401) and anti-discrimination statutes provide many rights, even in transitional settings.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Transitional housing tenants in Maryland have important rights, although not all standard rental laws may apply.
• You have the right to timely notice, safe conditions, and protection from illegal eviction or discrimination.
• State forms and the Maryland District Court provide ways to address disputes and request repairs.

Always review your program agreement and reach out to official state resources if you have concerns or questions.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maryland District Court Self-Help: Landlord-Tenant — Main state tribunal for tenant cases and guidance
• Maryland People's Law Library: Renting in Maryland — Comprehensive legal resources for renters
• Maryland Commission on Civil Rights — Report discrimination or seek fair housing help
• Maryland Courts Free Legal Help and Forms
• Maryland State Agency Directory — Support services, housing, and advocacy contacts

---

1. Maryland Code, Real Property Article, § 8-401 — Actions to repossess
2. Maryland District Court: Form DC-CV-082
3. Maryland District Court: Form DC-CV-083
4. Maryland Commission on Civil Rights Housing Discrimination Complaint
5. Maryland District Court: Landlord-Tenant Self-Help

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations