Your landlord has decided to sell the property you’re renting—now what? You may worry about your lease and living situation. In Maryland, tenants have specific rights that protect them when a rental property changes ownership.
Your lease remains in effect
In Maryland, a lease agreement remains legally binding even if the landlord sells the property. The new owner must honor the terms until the lease expires, unless the agreement includes an early termination clause. If you rent month-to-month, the new owner must provide at least 60 days’ notice before requiring you to vacate.
Notice requirements for tenants
Maryland law requires landlords to provide proper notice before making changes that affect tenants. If the new owner intends to occupy the home, they must wait until the lease ends or negotiate a mutual agreement for early termination. If the building is being sold in foreclosure, the Protecting Tenants at Foreclosure Act ensures you receive at least 90 days’ notice before being forced to leave.
Rent payments and security deposits
Until the sale is complete, continue paying rent as usual. The new owner must inform you where to send payments once they take over. Under Maryland Real Property Code § 8-203, security deposits must transfer to the new owner, who assumes responsibility for returning them when you move out. If you don’t receive confirmation, request written proof that your deposit has been properly transferred.
Tenant protections and relocation
If the new owner wants you to move, they must follow Maryland’s legal eviction process. Some local jurisdictions, like Baltimore City, have additional tenant protections, including relocation assistance in certain cases. Check your lease and local laws to understand your rights.