Mediation for Maryland Renters: Resolve Landlord Disputes

When disagreements arise between renters and landlords in Maryland—whether over rent increases, eviction notices, or unresolved repairs—mediation is a valuable tool to help both parties find common ground without going to court. Maryland law encourages early, voluntary dispute resolution. This article explains how mediation works for landlord-tenant disputes in Maryland, what to expect, and how to access this service.

What Is Mediation in Maryland Landlord-Tenant Disputes?

Mediation is a confidential process in which a neutral third party (the mediator) helps renters and landlords communicate and try to find a solution that works for both. Mediation does not force a decision, but instead fosters understanding and compromise. Maryland offers several government and court-connected mediation programs, making this approach accessible and affordable for renting Marylanders.

Who Handles Rental Mediation in Maryland?

The Maryland Courts Mediation and Conflict Resolution Office (MACRO) provides mediation resources and supports court-connected programs across the state. In many eviction or rent-related cases, the Maryland District Courts may refer or offer free mediation before, or instead of, a court hearing. This gives renters a chance to resolve housing issues quickly.

What Types of Rental Disputes Can Be Mediated?

• Rent increases or late fees disputes
• Repair and maintenance concerns
• Security deposit disagreements
• Eviction or notice disputes (including nonpayment or breach of lease)
• Noisy neighbors or property use conflicts

Both renters and landlords are encouraged to use mediation as an early step before things escalate to court.

How Does the Mediation Process Work?

The general steps for landlord-tenant mediation in Maryland are:

• Initiation: Either tenant or landlord requests mediation. This can be done directly through a local District Court (if a case is already filed), or via community mediation centers. Find your center using the official mediation program directory.
• Scheduling: A neutral mediator contacts both parties and arranges a convenient time—often within days.
• Session: At the mediation meeting (often virtual or in-person), the mediator helps each side explain their issues and suggest solutions.
• Agreement: If parties reach an agreement, it is usually written down and signed. In court-connected cases, the agreement can become part of the court record.
• If No Agreement: The parties may still choose to proceed to a hearing, but sometimes leave mediation with a better understanding or partial agreement.

Why Try Mediation Before Court?

• It is typically free or low-cost for Maryland residents.
• Mediation is confidential, faster than waiting for a court date, and may prevent a formal eviction record.
• It enables both sides to propose creative solutions—a court might not be able to order.

For many Maryland renters, mediation can resolve issues more quickly and preserve the landlord-tenant relationship.

Important Forms and Where to Find Them

• Maryland District Court Form DC-CA 116 – Request for Mediation (Landlord-Tenant):
  Download the Request for Mediation Form
  When to use it: If a court case about your rental issue is already filed in Maryland District Court (such as for eviction), you or your landlord may submit this form to request mediation. For example, if you have been served with an eviction complaint, you can ask the District Court to refer the case to mediation before a hearing occurs.
• Maryland District Court Landlord/Tenant Complaint (Form DC-CV-082):
  View the official housing complaint form
  When to use it: This is not a mediation-specific form but is required when a landlord files for eviction. Tenants can review this form to understand their rights and contest the claim during mediation or in court.

Always check the Maryland Courts Landlord-Tenant Forms page for current forms and instructions.

What Is the Law?

Maryland tenant rights and landlord-tenant law are primarily covered by the Maryland Real Property Code, Title 8 – Landlord and Tenant.¹ Mediation is not required by this code, but District Courts and community mediation centers are authorized and encouraged to offer this service to resolve disputes under this law.

Steps for Requesting Mediation in Maryland

• Contact your local District Court or community mediation center.
• Ask if your dispute qualifies for free mediation or if you need to submit Form DC-CA 116.
• After submitting, wait for the mediator to reach out to schedule a session.
• Participate honestly and review any agreement before signing.

Taking these steps increases the chances of resolving your issue without formal court action. See the steps below for more details.

Maryland Rental Tribunal and Where to Get Help

All formal landlord-tenant cases in Maryland are handled by the Maryland District Courts, the state's official tribunal for residential tenancies. For information on mediation and tenant resources, visit the Maryland Courts Landlord-Tenant Help Center.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I request mediation if I have already received an eviction notice?
   Yes. In most cases, you can request mediation at any time before your eviction hearing by submitting a Request for Mediation (Form DC-CA 116) to your local District Court.
2. Is mediation confidentiality protected by law?
   Yes. What you discuss in mediation cannot be used in court unless both parties agree to disclose it, except in rare cases involving threats of violence or criminal activity.
3. What happens if we reach an agreement in mediation?
   A written agreement may be drafted and, if your issue is in court, it can be filed as part of the court record. If all terms are followed, the dispute is usually resolved without going further in court.
4. Can I bring someone with me to mediation?
   With advance notice, renters can usually bring an advocate, attorney, or support person to mediation sessions—speak to the mediator beforehand about who may attend.
5. Does mediation cost anything in Maryland for renters?
   Most court-based and community mediation programs are free for Maryland residents, especially for housing issues. Some may request a small fee, but you can always ask about costs up front.

Key Takeaways

• Mediation is a free or low-cost way for Maryland renters to resolve disputes with landlords without going to court.
• The process is confidential and flexible, giving both sides the chance to be heard.
• Start by contacting your local District Court or community mediation center and consider submitting a mediation request form if a court case is underway.

Understanding your options can help you resolve housing issues faster and more amicably.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maryland Courts Landlord-Tenant Help Center – Free court and mediation resources.
• Maryland Courts Mediation and Conflict Resolution Office (MACRO) – Mediation guides and program locator.
• Landlord-Tenant Forms Library – Access all official court forms for renters.
• Maryland People's Law Library - Landlord/Tenant Portal – State-supported plain-language legal info for renters.

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1. Maryland Real Property Code, Title 8 – Landlord and Tenant
2. Maryland District Courts: Landlord-Tenant Disputes
3. Maryland Courts Mediation and Conflict Resolution Office (MACRO)
4. Landlord-Tenant Forms – Maryland Courts

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