Senior Housing Rights and Protections in Maryland

Special Housing Types & Situations Maryland published: June 21, 2025

Understanding your rights as a senior renter in Maryland is essential for feeling secure in your home. Maryland law provides specific protections for older adults living in senior housing, retirement communities, and age-restricted apartments. If you’re experiencing issues like rent increases, maintenance problems, or eviction threats, knowing these protections can help you advocate for yourself confidently. This guide will clearly explain key laws, forms, and available support.

What Is Considered Senior Housing in Maryland?

Senior housing in Maryland typically refers to apartments, complexes, or communities where at least one resident must be 62 or older. Some properties may set a minimum age of 55, but Maryland law and federal law (Housing for Older Persons Act) often require a majority of residents to meet these criteria.

Key Protections for Senior Renters

Senior renters in Maryland benefit from both state tenant protections and federal anti-discrimination laws. Here are some primary areas where laws may affect you as an older adult renter:

Fair Housing Protections: It’s illegal for landlords to discriminate based on age, disability, or familial status. The Fair Housing Act and Maryland Fair Housing laws ensure equal treatment for seniors.
Eviction Regulation: Seniors have the same eviction protections as any tenant under the Maryland Real Property Code § 8-401. Special rules may apply in subsidized or assisted housing, including longer notice requirements under certain assistance programs.
Maintenance and Habitability: Landlords are responsible for keeping rental properties safe and habitable. If you request repairs in writing (see below for forms), landlords must address unsafe conditions promptly.
Reasonable Accommodations: If you have additional needs due to age or disability, you can request reasonable modifications or accommodations. Landlords generally must comply unless it causes them undue hardship.
Notice Requirements: In most cases, seniors have the right to advance notice regarding rent increases or lease terminations. State law usually requires at least 60 days’ written notice for rent increases in many counties.

Important Forms for Senior Renters

Official forms can help you protect your rights or request help. Here are some of the most useful ones for older adults in Maryland:

Complaint Form (Maryland Commission on Civil Rights – Housing Discrimination):
- Housing Discrimination Complaint Form
- When and how it’s used: If you believe a landlord has discriminated against you based on age or disability, you may use this form to file a complaint with the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights (MCCR). For example, if you’re denied an apartment because of your age or a needed accommodation, fill out and submit this online or by mail from the official MCCR site.
Request for Repairs Notice (Sample letter – not a state-issued form):
- Sample Repair Request
- When and how it’s used: If you need repairs, you can send a written notice to your landlord (keep a copy). For example, if a broken heater isn’t fixed in winter, write this letter and deliver it by certified mail or email as proof.
Failure to Pay Rent – Tenant’s Defense Form (DC-CV-082):
- Tenant's Defense to Failure to Pay Rent
- When and how it’s used: If you receive a notice to appear in District Court for unpaid rent, you may fill this form to state defenses (e.g., unsafe conditions, discrimination) before your hearing.

Where to Go for Formal Issues: Maryland District Court and Housing Authorities

The Maryland District Court handles most residential landlord-tenant cases, including eviction and housing disputes. For fair housing issues, the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights investigates and mediates discrimination complaints.

How to File a Housing Discrimination Complaint

Filing a complaint can protect your rights and hold landlords accountable. Here’s a quick action guide for seniors:

Document what happened—including dates, notices, and witness statements if needed.
Complete the MCCR Complaint Form online or download and mail it in.
You will be contacted for further information or mediation by the Commission.

Understanding Evictions and How to Respond

Evictions can be stressful, but Maryland provides all tenants—including seniors—with due process. You have the right to:

Receive written notice before eviction (usually 14 to 30 days—check your lease and local county rules)
Appear in court to present your case
Raise defenses such as unsafe living conditions or landlord non-compliance

If you receive a court summons, respond promptly and consider bringing documents and witnesses. Free legal aid is available for qualifying seniors.

Reasonable Accommodations: What Seniors Can Request

Landlords must grant reasonable accommodations for tenants with disabilities (which often include age-related conditions). For example, you may ask to install grab bars or request an accessible parking spot. Always submit these requests in writing and keep a copy.

Laws Protecting Senior Tenants in Maryland

Maryland Real Property Code § 8-401 – Eviction and landlord responsibilities
Maryland Real Property Code § 8-203 – Security deposits
Federal Fair Housing Act

Always check your local county or city website for any extra protection for seniors. Contact your Area Agency on Aging for advocacy and tenant counseling.

Frequently Asked Questions for Senior Renters in Maryland

Can a landlord refuse to rent to me because I’m over 62?
No. Maryland landlords cannot refuse to rent based solely on age unless the housing is legally age-restricted. Discrimination based on age is prohibited under state and federal law.
What notice must my landlord give before raising my rent?
In most Maryland counties, landlords must provide at least 60 days’ written notice before increasing rent for existing tenants.
How do I report unsafe living conditions in my senior apartment?
Start by submitting a written repair request to your landlord. If unresolved, contact your county housing inspector. In serious cases, you can file a complaint with the Maryland Attorney General or District Court.
What should I do if I receive an eviction notice?
Respond promptly, attend your court hearing, and bring evidence or witnesses. If you believe the eviction is unfair or retaliatory, you may use the Tenant’s Defense form and seek legal aid.
Are there resources for free legal aid for seniors?
Yes. The Maryland Department of Aging and several Area Agencies on Aging offer free or low-cost legal services for seniors facing housing issues.

Key Takeaways

Maryland offers strong legal protections and resources for senior renters, including fair housing rights and support with evictions or unsafe conditions.
Use official forms and agencies to file complaints or request repairs—keep all documentation.
Help is available from state agencies and local senior advocacy groups if you need assistance.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Maryland Commission on Civil Rights Housing Complaints – File housing discrimination complaints.
Maryland District Court Landlord-Tenant Forms
Maryland Department of Aging – Connects seniors with advocacy and legal help.
Maryland Attorney General’s Tenants’ Rights Guide