MissionCare Housing Network — Tenant Rights Information (Maryland)
Phone: 240-444-6427 | Email: support@mcfamilysvcs.com

BEFORE YOU SIGN A LEASE
- Read the whole lease, including addenda, and get every promise in writing.
- Confirm total monthly cost: rent, utilities, parking, pet and amenity fees.
- Ask whether the unit and landlord are licensed, where licensing is required.
- Complete a written move-in inspection and photograph existing damage.

SECURITY DEPOSITS
- Maryland caps security deposits at two months' rent.
- You may request a written move-in and move-out inspection.
- The landlord must return the deposit, with any itemized deductions, within
  45 days of the end of tenancy.

REPAIRS AND HABITABILITY
- You are entitled to a safe and habitable home: working heat, water,
  electricity, working locks, and no serious hazards.
- Report problems in writing and keep copies.
- Maryland's rent escrow process lets a court hold rent when serious defects
  are not repaired after proper notice. Do not simply stop paying rent — get
  legal advice first.

EVICTION PROCESS
- A landlord must go to District Court; only a sheriff or constable may carry
  out an eviction. Lockouts and utility shutoffs are illegal.
- You will receive a summons with a hearing date. Attend the hearing — that is
  your chance to raise defenses.
- Ask about eviction prevention funds and legal representation before your
  hearing date. Maryland Legal Aid: 1-888-465-2468.

RETALIATION AND DISCRIMINATION
- Retaliation for reporting code violations or asserting your rights is
  prohibited.
- Discrimination complaints: HUD 1-800-669-9777; Maryland Commission on Civil
  Rights 410-767-8600.

COUNTY OFFICES
- Prince George's County Office of Landlord-Tenant Affairs / DPIE: 301-883-6100
- Montgomery County Office of Landlord-Tenant Affairs: 240-777-0311
- Anne Arundel County Office of Consumer / Landlord-Tenant matters: 410-222-7000

DISCLAIMER
This handout is general information, not legal advice. Laws and program rules
change. Contact a legal services organization or your county office to confirm
current requirements.