Maryland Rental Move-In Checklist: Inspection Guide for Renters

Moving into a new rental in Maryland is exciting, but before you sign a lease, it's essential to inspect the property carefully. This process helps protect your security deposit and ensures a smooth relationship with your landlord. Understanding Maryland's move-in inspection rights gives renters greater peace of mind and legal protection when starting a new tenancy.

Why a Rental Inspection Matters in Maryland

Maryland law gives renters strong protections when moving into a new home. Conducting a detailed move-in inspection is crucial to:

• Document existing damage or maintenance issues
• Prevent disputes over your security deposit when moving out
• Ensure the landlord has complied with legal disclosure and repair obligations

Both the landlord and the renter should keep written records and photographs of the rental unit's condition at move-in.

What to Inspect Before You Sign the Lease

Maryland tenants are encouraged—by law—to complete a thorough walkthrough before renting. Use a checklist and pay attention to these key areas:

• Structure and Safety: Walls, ceilings, windows, doors, smoke detectors, and locks should be intact and working.
• Plumbing: Check faucets, toilets, showers for leaks or damage, and ensure hot/cold water is functional.
• Electrical: Test outlets, lights, appliances, and the circuit breaker for safe operation.
• Heating & Cooling: Make sure heat, air conditioning, and ventilation systems function properly.
• Pest Issues: Look for signs of rodents or insects and ask about recent pest control.
• Cleanliness: Note the overall cleanliness of floors, appliances, and common areas.
• Mold & Water Damage: Document any mold, dampness, or water stains.
• Appliance Condition: Verify stoves, refrigerators, and washers/dryers work as intended.
• Lead Paint Disclosure: For homes built before 1978, landlords must provide a lead-based paint disclosure.
• Required Repairs: Note any repairs that must be completed before you move in. Get these in writing.

Required Move-In Inspections and Forms in Maryland

Under Maryland Real Property Code § 8-203, landlords must provide a written checklist detailing the condition of the premises. Both parties can complete and sign this at move-in.

Move-In/Move-Out Checklist

• Form: Maryland Move-In/Move-Out Inspection Checklist (no official state-issued number or universal template, but local housing departments like Baltimore City and Montgomery County provide recommended versions)
• How It's Used: Complete at move-in and move-out to document damage and protect your security deposit.
• Practical Example: A renter and landlord both inspect every room, note carpet stains in the bedroom, and take photos. Both initial the checklist and keep copies. At the end of the lease, this record is used to fairly assess any new damages.
• Sample Resource: Montgomery County Specimen Inspection Checklist (PDF)

Lead-Based Paint Disclosure

• Form: EPA/HUD Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form
• When/How Used: For homes built before 1978, landlords must provide this form before lease signing, along with the EPA pamphlet "Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home."
• Where To Find: EPA Lead Disclosure Resources

Security Deposit Receipts and Disclosures

• Form: Maryland Security Deposit Receipt (no universal form; landlord must provide written notice of tenant rights regarding deposit returns and inspections)
• When/How Used: Upon paying a security deposit, ensure you receive a receipt and documentation of your inspection and rights.
• Official Info: People's Law Library of Maryland – Security Deposits

Maryland Tribunals and Tenant Rights Protections

The Maryland judiciary handles residential tenancy disputes through the District Court of Maryland. This is where renters can file complaints about security deposit disputes or repairs. Learn more at the District Court of Maryland – Landlord/Tenant Forms page.

Key Maryland Rental Laws

For more details about tenant rights and landlord obligations, the primary law is Maryland Real Property Code § 8-203 (Security Deposit) and related sections.

FAQ: Maryland Move-In Inspections, Checklists, and Rental Rights

1. Do I have a right to see an inspection checklist before moving in?
   Yes. Maryland law requires landlords to provide a move-in checklist documenting the rental's condition, which can be used to resolve any future disputes.¹
2. What should I do if the landlord refuses to complete a move-in checklist?
   If your landlord declines, document the unit's condition yourself with detailed notes and photos. Email a copy to your landlord for your records and reference Maryland Real Property Code § 8-203 to highlight your rights.¹
3. What official forms should I get when moving into a Maryland rental?
   Expect a move-in checklist, a lead-based paint disclosure (if built before 1978), and a security deposit receipt or notice of rights.
4. How does the move-in checklist protect my security deposit?
   The checklist proves the condition of the unit at move-in, so you aren’t charged for prior damage at move-out. This is crucial for getting your full deposit back.
5. Where do I go if I have a problem with the inspection or move-in process?
   Contact the District Court of Maryland for landlord-tenant issues, or reach out to your local housing office for help.

Key Takeaways for Maryland Renters

• Always complete or ask for a move-in inspection checklist before signing your lease.
• Document the rental’s condition with photos and notes to protect your deposit.
• Know your right to key forms—move-in checklist, lead disclosure, and security deposit details.

Preparing and documenting your move-in gives you peace of mind and a fair start to your Maryland rental experience.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• District Court of Maryland – Landlord/Tenant Resources: File complaints or get official forms
• Montgomery County Landlord-Tenant Affairs: Free dispute resolution, local checklists
• People’s Law Library of Maryland: Easy-to-read guides about Maryland tenant rights
• EPA Lead Paint Disclosure: Official federal disclosure forms and information

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1. Maryland Real Property Code § 8-203 – Security Deposit Law
2. District Court of Maryland – Landlord/Tenant Forms
3. EPA Lead Disclosure and Maryland Requirements

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