Maryland Security Deposit Law at a Glance
Governing Statute
Md. Code, Real Prop. §8-203 — Security Deposits
Return Deadline
Your landlord must return your deposit or provide an itemized statement within 45 calendar days after termination of tenancy.
Penalty for Non-Return
If your landlord fails to return your deposit or provide an itemized statement within 45 calendar days, you may be entitled to up to treble the amount wrongfully withheld under Md. Code, Real Prop. §8-203(e).
Key Facts
- Maximum deposit: 2 months rent
- Itemization required: Within 45 calendar days
- Small claims limit: $5,000
- Interest on deposit: Landlord must pay simple interest at rate of 3% per year if deposit held for 6+ months
Additional Protections
- Landlord must hold deposit in Maryland financial institution
- Landlord must provide written receipt and disclose account location
- Interest required on deposits held more than 6 months
- Landlord must include a statement of tenant rights with deposit receipt
What Your Maryland Demand Letter Includes
Every letter is built from Maryland's actual statute — not a generic template.
Exact Statute Citation
Md. Code, Real Prop. §8-203 cited by section number. Your landlord sees you know the law.
Calculated Deadline
45 calendar days from your move-out date, computed automatically from your specific dates.
Penalty Warning
up to treble the amount wrongfully withheld — cited so your landlord knows the cost of non-compliance.
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Maryland Security Deposit FAQ
How long does my landlord have to return my security deposit in Maryland?
Under Md. Code, Real Prop. §8-203, your landlord has 45 calendar days after termination of tenancy to return your security deposit or provide an itemized statement of deductions.
What happens if my Maryland landlord doesn't return my deposit on time?
If your landlord fails to return your deposit within the legal deadline, you may be entitled to up to treble the amount wrongfully withheld under Md. Code, Real Prop. §8-203(e). You can pursue this in small claims court.
What is the maximum security deposit a landlord can charge in Maryland?
Under Md. Code, Real Prop. §8-203(b), the maximum security deposit in Maryland is 2 months rent.
Does my Maryland landlord have to itemize deductions from my deposit?
Yes. Maryland law requires landlords to provide an itemized list of deductions within 45 calendar days of move-out.
Can I sue my landlord in small claims court in Maryland?
Yes. Maryland small claims court handles cases up to $5,000. Security deposit disputes are one of the most common small claims cases.
Do I need a lawyer to send a security deposit demand letter in Maryland?
No. A demand letter is a formal written request, not a lawsuit. You can send one yourself. Our tool generates a Maryland-specific demand letter citing Md. Code, Real Prop. §8-203 so your landlord knows you understand your rights.
Security Deposit Demand Letters by State
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