Writing a Demand Letter to Your Landlord in Maryland

If you're a renter in Maryland facing issues like unresolved repairs, withheld security deposits, or housing code violations, sending a demand letter to your landlord is often the first formal step toward resolving the problem. Understanding how to draft and deliver a clear, effective demand letter can help protect your rights under Maryland tenant law and set the stage for further action if needed.

What Is a Demand Letter and Why Should You Use One?

A demand letter is a written request you send to your landlord outlining the issue and what resolution you expect. It documents your concerns and provides your landlord with an opportunity to respond before you escalate the dispute or seek legal remedies.

• Shows your willingness to resolve the matter outside court
• Makes your complaint official and clear
• Creates a record of communication, which is crucial for future legal steps

When to Send a Demand Letter in Maryland

Consider a demand letter if you've already notified your landlord about an issue—such as non-urgent repairs, security deposit return, or unlawful rent increases—and they haven't taken appropriate action within a reasonable time.

• Unaddressed Repairs: For health, safety, or habitability issues, after a reasonable waiting period
• Security Deposit Disputes: If your deposit isn't returned or itemized within 45 days of move-out, as required by Maryland law
• Other Lease Violations: Unresolved problems you’ve already discussed with your landlord informally

Maryland Laws and Tenant Rights

Your rights and obligations are outlined in the Maryland Real Property Code, Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant. The Maryland Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Guidelines also provide useful information on specific situations.

How to Write an Effective Demand Letter

A well-crafted demand letter should be polite, clear, and direct. Include key facts, your desired solution, and a deadline for a response.

Essential Information to Include

• Your name, address, and contact details
• Landlord's name and address
• Date of the letter
• Summary of the issue (e.g., repairs, deposit return, etc.)
• What action you are requesting and your deadline (usually 7–14 days)
• Reference to relevant laws or lease agreements, if possible
• Clear, courteous language with specific details

Sample Maryland Demand Letter Form

While Maryland does not provide a statewide official demand letter form, renters may use a signed written statement or letter. For security deposit disputes, reference the requirements in Section 8-203 of the Maryland Real Property Code. You can find a helpful template for general landlord-tenant complaints at the People's Law Library of Maryland - Sample Request for Repairs.

• Sample Letter: Request for Repairs or Maintenance (no official form number)
  Use this if you need to formally request repairs or maintenance your landlord has not addressed. View and download the sample letter.

What Happens After You Send Your Demand Letter?

Your landlord may respond with a solution, negotiate, or deny your request. If they do not respond or resolve the issue, you may be able to file a complaint with the district court or seek help from Maryland’s District Court, which oversees residential landlord-tenant disputes.

Official Resources and Where to File a Complaint

Maryland residential tenancy disputes are handled by the Maryland District Court. For unresolved issues, you can also contact local agencies or legal aid services.

• District Court of Maryland - Landlord and Tenant Information
• Maryland Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division - Renters' Rights
• Maryland Legal Aid for free or low-cost legal assistance

1. What should I do if my landlord ignores my demand letter?
   If your landlord does not respond within the timeframe you set, you may consider filing a complaint with the District Court of Maryland or seeking legal assistance from local agencies such as Maryland Legal Aid.
2. Is there a special form for demand letters in Maryland?
   No official government form exists for general landlord-tenant demand letters in Maryland. However, you can use templates from the People's Law Library or draft your own, ensuring it includes all key details.
3. How long should I wait for a response after sending my demand letter?
   Allow at least 7–14 days for your landlord to respond, unless the matter is urgent. Refer to your letter for the deadline you set.
4. Can I email my demand letter to my landlord?
   Yes, you can deliver your demand letter by certified mail, personal delivery, or email (with read receipts for documentation). Retain copies for your records.
5. Which law covers landlord-tenant relationships in Maryland?
   The Maryland Real Property Code, Title 8 governs residential rental situations in the state.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• A written demand letter formally documents your concerns and is often the first step toward resolution
• Include all necessary details, a clear request, a deadline, and keep records of your communication
• If the issue remains unresolved, you may escalate by contacting the District Court or seeking legal aid

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maryland District Court – Handles landlord-tenant disputes and information
• Maryland Attorney General – Landlords & Tenants
• Maryland Legal Aid – Legal support for renters
• People's Law Library of Maryland – Tenant Law Guide

---

1. Maryland Real Property Code, Title 8 – Landlord and Tenant
2. Maryland Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Guidelines
3. District Court of Maryland – Landlord and Tenant Information
4. People's Law Library: Sample Letter for Repairs or Maintenance

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