Landlords have a legal responsibility to keep the property in a habitable condition. If the landlord or property manager fails to make necessary repairs in a timely manner, Maryland tenants may have recourse. Failure to follow the proper channels and simply...
Offering high-quality, cost-effective representation to consumers throughout Maryland
Tenant’s Rights
Basic tenant’s rights in Maryland
Renting in Maryland can be tough when there is a downturn in the economy. Sometimes, tenants feel like they have to just accept landlord discrimination and retaliation in a tight housing market. In reality, you shouldn't put up with these abuses, and landlords must...
Maryland law caps rental property security deposits
Landlords in Maryland usually ask their tenants to pay a security deposit equivalent to one month’s rent when leases are signed, but they may ask for more when the tenant owns pets or has a troubled credit history. However, Maryland tenant law states that the amount...
Maintaining your privacy while renting
When you rent a home in Maryland, there are some rights that you have as a tenant. You should be able to live in a peaceful environment without the fear of someone causing trouble or invading your privacy. Your landlord has rights to the property too, but they might...
The rules about changing a valid lease
It isn't uncommon for Maryland landlords to make changes to their lease agreements. However, those changes generally cannot go into effect until after an existing lease expires. You may want to take a closer look at what your options are in the event that your...
Things landlords cannot legally do
The Maryland rental business can be quite popular for many landlords looking to cash in on passive income. However, as a tenant, it's important to know your rights regarding what your landlord can and cannot do. Just as you're expected to pay for your rent each month,...
Are tenants entitled to a warranty of habitability?
Once a Maryland property owner accepts payment for the rent of a home or apartment, they're considered to have entered into a landlord-tenant agreement. While the laws regarding landlord and tenant relationships do vary slightly from state to state, one thing they all...
Resolving tenant-landlord security deposit disputes
Protect Yourself
When you move into a apartment or other rental unit, take photos of the conditions of the floors, walls, and appliances. Do the same when you move out! After you have moved all of your belongings out of the unit, take photos of the conditions. Proof that the unit was in good condition upon move out will help if your landlord decides to keep some of your security deposit.
Can you force your landlord to make repairs?
When you rent an apartment in Maryland, you have certain rights as a tenant. This includes the right to live in a safe, habitable environment. If your landlord refuses to provide that, you might have to pursue legal action. Can you force a landlord to make repairs?...
Rodent Infestation Suit Against Hendersen-Webb, Inc.
SVO recently filed suit on behalf of our client, Carla Beckford, who was a tenant at the Wellington Gate Apartments in Baltimore. The Complaint against the owner entity and Hendersen-Webb, Inc. alleges that the conditions of the Apartment were deplorable and included a rampant rodent infestation.