Disclosures
Habitability – The landlord must provide a statement that clearly states that the rental unit is habitable and safe and also lists the tenant’s responsibilities. (§ 8–208(c))
Lead-Based Paint Disclosure – Federal law requires all landlords to give their tenants a lead paint disclosure for buildings constructed before 1978, which discusses the possibility of harmful lead paint being present. (EPA/HUD Fact Sheet)
Landlord Identification – The names, phone numbers, and addresses of the landlord or anyone acting as such must be provided to the renter. (§ 8–210(a)(1))
Move-in/Move-out Checklist – The tenant has the right to be present in the rental unit with the landlord when the move-in and move-out checklists are created. (§ 8–203.1(a))
Security Deposit Rights – The written rights of the tenant and the landlord under the Maryland Statute must accompany the security deposit receipt. (§8–203(f)1(vi))
Ratio Utility Billing System (RUBS) Disclosure (conditional) – If a landlord uses a (RUBS) to bill their tenant for utilities, then they must give a written statement of the relevant utilities as well as provide an average utility bill of the other occupants in the building. (§ 8–212.4(c)(1))
Rent Grace Period
Security Deposit
Maximum Amount – Two months’ rent is the maximum amount a landlord may charge for a security deposit. (§ 8–203(b)(1))
Returning – The landlord must return the security deposit back to the renter within 45 days of the lease end date. (§ 8–203(e)(1))
- Deductions – If the landlord does not refund the entire security deposit, they have 45 days to first-class mail an itemized list of damages to the tenant. (§ 8–203(g)(1))