Maryland’s rent increase laws in 2024 present a mix of statewide regulations and local ordinances that tenants should be aware of. Here’s a summary of the key points:
General Overview
- Statewide Regulations: Maryland does not have a statewide cap on rent increases, allowing landlords to adjust rents according to lease agreements. However, they must provide proper notice based on the lease type:
- 90 days for leases longer than one month.
- 60 days for leases between one week and one month.
- 21 days for oral leases of one week or less.
- 7 days for written leases of one week or less.
Local Ordinances
Montgomery County
- Rent Stabilization Bill (Bill No. 15-23): Effective August 1, 2024, this bill limits annual rent increases to the lesser of 3% plus inflation or a maximum of 6%. Landlords must provide at least 90 days’ notice before any increase.
- Capital Improvements: Landlords can apply surcharges for capital improvements, with specific limits on how much rent can be increased based on the nature of the improvements.
Prince George’s County
- Rent Stabilization Act of 2023: Temporarily limits rent increases to 3% over a 12-month period, effective until October 17, 2024. This applies to most residential properties but excludes affordable housing units and those built within the last five years.
Baltimore City
- Similar to Montgomery County, Baltimore City monitors rent increases closely, linking them to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) to ensure affordability for tenants.
Tenant Protections
- The Renters’ Rights and Stabilization Act of 2024, signed by Governor Wes Moore, enhances protections against excessive rent hikes and outlines penalties for landlords who violate these regulations. Tenants can challenge unlawful increases, which may lead to legal action against landlords.
Conclusion
Tenants in Maryland should familiarize themselves with both state and local laws regarding rent increases. While statewide rules allow flexibility for landlords, local ordinances in areas like Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties provide specific protections aimed at maintaining affordable housing. Tenants facing potential rent increases should ensure they receive proper notice and understand their rights under current legislation.
SOURCES:-
- https://www.turbotenant.com/state/maryland/rent-control/
- https://www.steadily.com/blog/rent-increase-laws-regulations-maryland
- https://www.peoples-law.org/prince-georges-county-rental-and-housing-laws