Your complete guide to renter protections in Baltimore, MD. Learn about local ordinances, rent control status, security deposit rules, and how city law works alongside Maryland state protections.
No
Rent Control
45
Days to Return Deposit
1 month's rent (reduced from 2 months by HB 693, eff. 2024-10-01)
Max Deposit
3
Local Protections
Current rent regulation status
No Local Rent Control
Baltimore does not have local rent control. Maryland state law governs rent increase practices.
Without local rent control, landlords in Baltimore may raise rent with proper written notice as required by Maryland law. There is no cap on the amount of increase, but it must not be retaliatory or discriminatory.
Baltimore-specific laws and ordinances
Baltimore Rental Registration and Inspection Program
Right to Counsel for tenants facing eviction
Maryland security deposit interest requirement (3% per year)
Local ordinances work alongside Maryland state law. Where local protections are stronger, the local rule typically applies. View full Maryland state protections.
Laws that apply to all Maryland renters
Max Security Deposit
1 month's rent (reduced from 2 months by HB 693, eff. 2024-10-01)
Deposit Return Deadline
45 days
Entry Notice Required
Reasonable notice
Governing Statute
Maryland Code
Common questions about renting in Baltimore
No, Baltimore does not currently have local rent control. Maryland state law governs rent increase rules. Landlords must typically provide proper written notice before raising rent.
In Baltimore, the Maryland state limit of 1 month's rent (reduced from 2 months by HB 693, eff. 2024-10-01) applies. Landlords must return deposits within 45 days after you move out.
Baltimore tenants benefit from several protections: Baltimore Rental Registration and Inspection Program; Right to Counsel for tenants facing eviction; Maryland security deposit interest requirement (3% per year). These are in addition to Maryland state law.
You can contact the Baltimore local housing authority or code enforcement department to file complaints about habitability issues, discrimination, or landlord violations. Visit your local housing authority's website for details. You can also file with the Maryland attorney general's office for state-level violations.
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