Maryland Standard Residential Lease Agreement

A Maryland standard residential lease agreement is a contract that establishes a rental arrangement where a tenant leases a landlord’s residential property for a fixed term. A standard lease defines the parties’ rights and obligations and will include a variety of conditions regarding the tenancy, such as the cost of rent, payment date, length of lease, and security deposit requirements.

Maryland Standard Residential Lease Agreement

A Maryland standard residential lease agreement is a contract that establishes a rental arrangement where a tenant leases a landlord’s residential property for a fixed term. A standard lease defines the parties’ rights and obligations and will include a variety of conditions regarding the tenancy, such as the cost of rent, payment date, length of lease, and security deposit requirements.

Last updated January 5th, 2024

A Maryland standard residential lease agreement is a contract that establishes a rental arrangement where a tenant leases a landlord’s residential property for a fixed term. A standard lease defines the parties’ rights and obligations and will include a variety of conditions regarding the tenancy, such as the cost of rent, payment date, length of lease, and security deposit requirements.

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Rental Application – Before signing a lease agreement, landlords should use a rental application to determine whether an applicant will be a reliable tenant.

Required Disclosures (6)

  1. Habitability and Safety – State law requires leases to include a statement affirming that the rental property is habitable and safe.[1]
  2. Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (PDF) – For all residences built before 1978, a disclosure is required to inform tenants that lead-based paint may be present on the premises.[2]
  3. Move-in/Move-out Checklist (PDF) – If the tenant pays a security deposit, they must be given a receipt that informs them of their right to have the landlord inspect the premises and make a list of existing damages within 15 days of occupancy.[3]
  4. Ratio Utility Billing System (RUBS) Disclosure (PDF) – If the landlord uses a ratio utility billing system, tenants must receive a written notice that discloses the supplied utilities and the method used to determine billing. This disclosure isn’t required if the unit is a condominium or co-op.[4]
  5. Security Deposit Receipt – If the landlord requires the tenant to pay a security deposit, the lease agreement must include a written deposit receipt.[5]
  6. Utilities and Repairs – The lease must disclose the landlord and tenant’s obligations regarding the tenant’s utilities and repairs.[6]

Security Deposits

  • Maximum Amount ($) – 2 months’ rent.[7]
  • Returning to Teenant – 45 days.[8]

Rent Grace Period

In Maryland, there is no grace period for paying rent.[9]