Maryland Tenant Protections Against Landlord Harassment by Text

Dealing with unwanted or harassing text messages from a landlord can be stressful, especially if you simply want a safe and peaceful home. In Maryland, tenants have specific rights and protections when it comes to harassment, including repeated or inappropriate messages by text. Understanding what counts as harassment, your legal options, and where to seek help ensures you can protect yourself and your rental situation.

What Is Considered Landlord Harassment in Maryland?

In Maryland, landlord harassment occurs when a landlord acts in a way that significantly interferes with your ability to enjoy your rental home or tries to pressure you to move or give up your rights. Harassment can happen through:

• Repeated, unwanted, or threatening text messages
• Threats of eviction or retaliation for requesting repairs
• Entering your home without proper notice
• Shutting off essential services (water, heat, etc.)

Maryland law protects tenants from retaliation or harassment, including conduct carried out by electronic text or messages. Communication about legitimate lease matters—like rent reminders or maintenance scheduling—does not count as harassment. But excessive, threatening, or personally abusive texts may violate your rights.^[1]

Your Legal Protections as a Maryland Renter

Under the Maryland Code, Real Property § 8-208.1, landlords cannot retaliate against tenants by harassing or intimidating them, especially if you’ve asserted your legal rights (for example, requesting repairs or reporting code violations).

• Any action that attempts to threaten you, coerce payment outside your lease, or frighten you into moving out may count as harassment.
• If you’ve received harassing texts after making a complaint or asking for repairs, the law presumes retaliation and places the burden of proof on the landlord.

If you feel unsafe or threatened, you can also contact local law enforcement in addition to pursuing legal remedies.

Examples of Harassing Texts

• Threatening to change locks if you don’t pay rent immediately
• Sending repeated nighttime messages demanding you vacate
• Using offensive or abusive language in texts
• Threats to report your immigration status or call authorities if you assert your rights

What To Do If You’re Harassed by Text in Maryland

If your landlord sends harassing or inappropriate text messages, you have several options under Maryland law. Acting promptly preserves your evidence and gives you the best chance of resolving the situation.

• Document Everything: Save all text messages, screenshots, and any other communications from your landlord.
• Communicate in Writing: Politely let your landlord know which communications are welcome and which are not. Written requests are easier to reference if you need to take legal steps.
• File a Complaint: If the harassment continues or escalates, consider filing a formal complaint with your local District Court—Maryland’s official tribunal for landlord-tenant disputes—or city/county housing agency. For dispute resolution, refer to your local Maryland District Court Tenant-Landlord Self-Help Center.

For urgent issues (like threats to safety), access emergency services or contact your local police department directly.

Relevant Official Forms

• Complaint for Summary Ejectment (DC-CV-082): Usually for eviction proceedings, but can also be filed by tenants to respond to wrongful actions or seek judicial protection. If your landlord’s texts are a prelude to unlawful eviction, use this form to make your case. Official form.
  Example: If your landlord threatens eviction by text with no valid reason, use this form to demand your legal right to a hearing.
• Petition for Protection (Peace Order, CC-DC-PO-001): If the harassment involves threats or abuse that make you feel unsafe, you may file a Peace Order at District Court. Download here.
  Example: If your landlord’s texts have become threatening, this form lets you request court protection.

How Maryland Handles Tenant-Landlord Disputes

The Maryland District Court oversees most residential tenancy disputes, including harassment and retaliation complaints. Tenants can file relevant forms, present evidence (like text messages), and seek remedies such as orders against further contact or compensation for damages.

• District Court locations and information: Find your location
• Self-help legal resources: Landlord-Tenant Help

Relevant Maryland Legislation

• Maryland Real Property Code § 8-208.1 – Retaliatory Actions
• Maryland Real Property Code – Tenant Rights & Obligations

Understanding the above laws helps you recognize when a landlord’s behavior crosses the line into harassment, especially if it escalates through digital channels like text messaging. When in doubt, consult an attorney or your local legal aid office for personalized help.

FAQ: Maryland Landlord Harassment and Text Messages

1. What should I do first if my landlord harasses me by text?
   Start by saving all messages and clearly asking your landlord to stop the harassing behavior. If harassment continues, seek legal help or file a complaint through Maryland District Court.
2. Is it illegal for a landlord to text tenants in Maryland?
   No, landlords can communicate by text—however, repeated, threatening, or abusive text messages may count as harassment, which is not legal.
3. How can I prove landlord harassment via text?
   Save all the communications, note dates and times, and document how the messages make you feel. This documentation is strong evidence in court or with housing agencies if you need to take further action.
4. Can I get a restraining order if my landlord threatens me by text?
   If texts include threats or create fear for your safety, you may apply for a Peace Order at your local District Court using the correct form.
5. Who handles landlord harassment complaints in Maryland?
   The Maryland District Court is the official board for such complaints. You can file forms, attend hearings, and seek protection there.

Key Takeaways for Maryland Renters

• You have the right to live free from harassment, including repeated or inappropriate texts from your landlord.
• Maryland law protects you against retaliation, and gives you tools to respond—document evidence and use official forms if needed.
• If you feel unsafe, help is available through the courts and local resources. Always take harassment seriously and seek guidance when needed.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maryland District Court Landlord-Tenant Self-Help Center – Find court contacts and legal guides
• Maryland Legal Help: Landlord-Tenant Issues
• Maryland Office of the Attorney General – Landlord/Tenant Information
• For immediate safety concerns, call your local police or dial 911

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1. Maryland Real Property Code § 8-208.1 – Tenant Retaliation & Harassment Protections
2. Maryland District Court – Official Landlord-Tenant Tribunal
3. Complaint for Summary Ejectment (DC-CV-082) – Download from MD Courts
4. Peace Order Petition (CC-DC-PO-001) – Download from MD Courts

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