Landlord-Tenant Law In Maryland
Most lease “forms” are inadequate and can subject the unwary landlord to unnecessary damages and problems in evicting tenants who breach a lease. Additionally, Maryland has very specific requirements concerning security deposits. Failure to include the proper language in the lease or receipt can result in the landlord not being able to retain the security deposit. If a landlord unlawfully withholds all or part of a security deposit, the tenant can recover up to three (3) times the amount wrongfully withheld as damages. Many landlords are unaware of the lead paint disclosure requirements.
Landlord-Tenant Law is constantly evolving. There are many new legal requirements that the unrepresented landlord may not comply with leading to legal difficulties down the road. The prudent landlord will hire the firm to make sure that their lease complies with:
- Recent Security Deposit Law
- Maryland Tenants Bill of Rights
- Mold and Mildew Remediation
- Tenant Right of First Refusal
- Lead-Paint Registration and Inspection
- Assistance Animals
- Limitation of Tenant Liability for Rent
- Notice of Utility Costs
- Notice of Intent to Enter Leased Premises
Moreover, recent Maryland Law places greater notice requirements on Landlords seeking eviction, including but not limited to:
- 10 Day written Notice of Landlord’s Intent to File a Claim for Rent
- Notice to Tenant prior to execution of a Warrant of Restitution
Tenants may now have records of Failure to Pay Rent proceedings shielded under certain circumstances.
Always have a lawyer review or prepare your lease, it can save countless problems down the road.
Contact Us For Help Today
Attorneys Charles L. Scott, Jr. and Jennifer M. Chesney can help answer your questions about landlord-tenant law. To find out more, contact our office online or by phone our office in Elkton at 410-398-0611.