Landlords may deduct money from a Maryland security deposit for unpaid rent, certain lease-related damages and tenant-caused damage beyond ordinary wear and tear. Maryland law requires landlords to return the security deposit, with applicable interest, within 45 days after the tenancy ends. If any portion is withheld, the landlord must provide a written list of claimed damages and an itemized statement of costs, with supporting documentation as required by law.
Compare charges with the property’s condition
Review photographs and inspection records from your move-in and move-out dates. Compare these with the landlord’s claimed repairs to determine whether the charge addresses damage you caused or ordinary wear and tear. Maryland’s Attorney General explains the rules on security-deposit deductions.
Review the landlord’s itemized deductions
Review each deduction to see whether it matches the condition identified by the landlord. Look for vague descriptions that do not explain what was repaired or replaced.
Maryland law permits landlords to use an estimate as supporting documentation in certain circumstances. If a landlord uses an estimate, the landlord must provide the final invoice after completing the repairs and return any excess amount withheld within 30 days of completing the repairs.
Check your move-out inspection rights
Maryland law gives tenants the right to attend the landlord’s move-out inspection. To exercise this right, you must send written notice by certified mail no later than 15 days before your planned move-out date. The notice must include your intent to move, the moving date and your new address. The landlord must then send written notice by certified mail stating when the inspection will take place. The inspection must occur no more than five days before or after the move.
Question charges that do not match the damage
Compare the claimed cost with local repair costs and ask for supporting documentation. Check whether the amount charged matches the repair or replacement described. If the charge appears substantially higher than the work described or includes unrelated costs, ask the landlord for an explanation and supporting records.
Know your options if the landlord refuses
Keep written communications about disputed charges and your move-in and move-out records. If a landlord wrongfully withholds a security deposit, a tenant may be able to seek damages of up to three times the amount the landlord improperly withheld, along with reasonable attorney’s fees, when the requirements under Maryland law are satisfied.
Protect your rights as a tenant
Speaking with a Maryland tenant rights attorney can help you understand whether the charges comply with state law, how to respond to disputed deductions and what steps you can take to recover your deposit.