Maryland security deposit rules
Maryland limits security deposits to 1 month's rent. The deposit must be returned within 45 days after the end of the tenancy, with accrued interest, less lawful deductions; itemized list of damages and costs must be sent within the same 45 days.. Maryland is one of the states that requires interest on the deposit.
What the law requires
1 month's rent. Returned Within 45 days after the end of the tenancy, with accrued interest, less lawful deductions; itemized list of damages and costs must be sent within the same 45 days.. Cap lowered from 2 months to 1 month effective 2024-10-01 by HB 693, Renters' Rights and Stabilization Act of 2024 (Ch. 124). Up to 2 months allowed if tenant receives utility assistance and agrees in writing. Overcharge: tenant may recover up to 3x the excess plus fees. Interest: simple interest at the greater of 1.5%/yr or the 1-year U.S. Treasury yield as of the first business day of the year, accruing monthly, only on deposits of $50 or more held at least 6 months.
- Deductions: unpaid rent and damage beyond normal wear and tear, itemised in writing. Cleaning and repainting after ordinary use are normal wear in most states.
- Deadline: the 45-day clock usually starts when the tenant moves out and, in many states, when a forwarding address is provided. Missing it typically forfeits the landlord’s right to keep any of the deposit and can add statutory damages.
- Interest: Maryland requires interest on the deposit. The deposit interest calculator applies the rate and thresholds.
Move-out checklist
- Give written notice of the move-out date and a forwarding address; many deadlines only start when the landlord has the address.
- Photograph every room after cleaning, with a timestamp. Request a joint inspection where the state allows one.
- If the deadline passes, send a written demand citing Md. Code, Real Prop. § 8-203. Small-claims court handles deposit disputes in every state and most cap the claim well above a typical deposit.
Related Maryland rules
- Late fees: Late fee may not exceed 5% of the unpaid rent due for the rental period; for weekly tenancies, max $3 per week and $12 per month. No statutory grace period. Late fee calculator.
- Notice to end a tenancy: Landlord: 60 days' written notice before the end of the rental period for month-to-month (90 days year-to-year; 7 days week-to-week with written lease, 21 without). Tenant: oral notice at least 30 days before expiration suffices, except in Baltimore City. Reduced 30-60 day periods apply in some foreclosure situations. Notice calculator.
- All rules on one page: Maryland landlord and tenant law.
Frequently asked questions
How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Maryland?
1 month's rent. Cap lowered from 2 months to 1 month effective 2024-10-01 by HB 693, Renters' Rights and Stabilization Act of 2024 (Ch. 124). Up to 2 months allowed if tenant receives utility assistance and agrees in writing. Overcharge: tenant may recover up to 3x the excess plus fees. Interest: simple interest at the greater of 1.5%/yr or the 1-year U.S. Treasury yield as of the first business day of the year, accruing monthly, only on deposits of $50 or more held at least 6 months.
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Maryland?
Within 45 days after the end of the tenancy, with accrued interest, less lawful deductions; itemized list of damages and costs must be sent within the same 45 days.. The statute is Md. Code, Real Prop. § 8-203.
Does a Maryland landlord have to pay interest on the security deposit?
Yes, in the circumstances set out in Md. Code, Real Prop. § 8-203. See the Maryland deposit interest calculator for the rate and the rules.