Unlike a rental application, a Maryland lease agreement is a legal contract between a landlord and tenant. It outlines the terms and conditions for occupancy of a rental property. It also ensures both parties understand their rights and responsibilities afforded by the code of Maryland.
This document for prospective tenants covers essential aspects such as monthly rent, lease duration, security deposits, maintenance, information on property managers, and more. It is accepted across the state, offering protection for landlords and lessees.
Follow these steps to write a Maryland rental lease agreement:
Certain disclosures must be included in a Maryland residential lease agreement to comply with state laws and protect the tenant’s rights. These cover habitability information required by federal law, including a lead-based paint disclosure and security deposit requirements.
According to Maryland law, landlords can charge a maximum of two months’ rent as a security deposit.
They must provide tenants with a receipt for their deposit, or receive a $25 fine.
Landlords must return the deposit, either in full or with deductions, 45 days after the tenant’s move-out date.
The most common Maryland lease agreement is the standard residential lease agreement.
Oral lease agreements are enforceable by law in the state of Maryland for lease terms of one year or less. However, we recommend having a written lease agreement between landlord and tenant, even in a month-to-month lease agreement.
According to tenant laws in Maryland, landlords can’t increase the rent during the lease term unless there is a provision in the rental contract or lease agreement that allows for such an increase. Rent increases typically occur when the lease term is up for renewal and include written notice.
Yes, late fees are permitted in Maryland lease agreements. However, the amount and conditions for charging late fees must be clearly stated in the lease agreement and can’t be excessive. Maryland law sets limits on late fees to protect tenants from unreasonable charges.
If a tenant breaks a lease agreement before their move-out date in Maryland, they may be held responsible for rent payment until a new tenant is found or until the lease term ends, whichever occurs first. The landlord has a legal obligation to mitigate damages by actively seeking a new tenant.
No, landlords in Maryland must obtain a court order for termination of the tenancy and issue an eviction notice. Self-help evictions, such as changing locks or removing a tenant's belongings, are illegal and can result in significant penalties for the landlord.
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