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Maryland does not have a statewide rent control law. Instead, rent stabilization has emerged at the county and local level. As of 2026, three jurisdictions have rent stabilization:
Each jurisdiction has different rules, caps, and exemptions. If you rent in Maryland, you need to check which (if any) of these laws applies to your specific address.
Montgomery County's rent stabilization law became effective on July 23, 2024. It is administered by the Montgomery County Department of Housing and Community Affairs (DHCA).
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Rent Cap Formula | CPI-U + 3%, or 6%, whichever is lower |
| 2025–2026 Rate | 5.7% |
| Coverage | Buildings 23+ years old (rolling exemption for newer construction) |
| Notice Required | 90 days' written notice before any rent increase |
| Banking | Landlords may bank up to 10% of unused increases for future use |
Exemptions: Gaithersburg, Rockville, Takoma Park, Barnesville, and Laytonsville have their own regulations and are not subject to the county law. Small landlords, accessory dwelling units, and certain facility-based housing may also be exempt.
Prince George's County's Permanent Rent Stabilization & Protection Act became effective on October 17, 2024. It covers residential units throughout the county.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Standard Cap | CPI-U + 3%, or 6%, whichever is lower |
| Senior Housing Cap | CPI-U or 4.5%, whichever is lower |
| Coverage | Residential rental units under county jurisdiction |
Takoma Park is the only municipality in Maryland with its own independent rent control ordinance, separate from Montgomery County. It has operated a rent stabilization program for decades.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| 2025–2026 Cap | 2.4% |
| Coverage | Multifamily rentals and rented condos within Takoma Park city limits |
| Notice Required | Two months' written notice before any rent increase |
While Maryland has no statewide rent cap, state law provides baseline protections for all Maryland renters:
For month-to-month tenancies, Maryland law requires at least one full rental period's notice (typically 30 days) before a rent increase. Fixed-term leases cannot be increased mid-lease unless the lease specifically allows it.
Maryland limits security deposits to two months' rent. Landlords must return the deposit (with a written itemized statement of deductions) within 45 days of the tenancy ending. Landlords who wrongfully withhold deposits may owe the tenant the withheld amount plus damages and attorney fees.
Maryland landlords must maintain rental properties in a habitable condition — working heat, plumbing, and structural safety. If a landlord fails to address serious habitability issues after written notice, tenants may have the right to withhold rent or terminate the lease.
Landlords cannot retaliate against tenants for exercising legal rights — such as reporting code violations, contacting a housing authority, or organizing with neighbors. Retaliatory rent increases or eviction notices are illegal.
Find out if your home is covered by rent control or tenant protections.
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