Maryland Security Deposit Law
Maryland landlords must return security deposits within 45 days under Md. Code, Real Prop. § 8-203. Violations result in damages up to 3× the wrongfully withheld amount plus attorney's fees.
Key Facts — Maryland
- Return deadline
- 45 days after move-out
- Governing statute
- Maryland Code, Real Property § 8-203
- Short citation
- Md. Code, Real Prop. § 8-203
- Penalty for violation
- damages up to 3× the wrongfully withheld amount plus attorney's fees
- Small claims court limit
- $5,000
Generate your demand letter
We generate a formal security deposit demand letter citing Md. Code, Real Prop. § 8-203 with the exact penalty language. Most landlords respond within 14 days of receiving a formal letter.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Maryland?
Under Md. Code, Real Prop. § 8-203, a Maryland landlord must return the security deposit — along with an itemized list of any deductions — within 45 days of the tenant vacating the property.
What happens if a Maryland landlord keeps my deposit illegally?
If your landlord fails to return the deposit within 45 days without a valid reason, damages up to 3× the wrongfully withheld amount plus attorney's fees. You can pursue this in Maryland small claims court (limit: $5,000).
Can a landlord in Maryland deduct for normal wear and tear?
No. Maryland law, like all US states, prohibits landlords from deducting for normal wear and tear — routine scuffing, minor carpet wear, and faded paint are the landlord's cost of doing business, not the tenant's.
How do I send a security deposit demand letter in Maryland?
Generate a demand letter citing Md. Code, Real Prop. § 8-203, sign it, and send via USPS Certified Mail with Return Receipt to your landlord. The certified mail receipt creates a legal paper trail and proves delivery. Give the landlord 14 days to respond before filing in small claims court.
Tenant rights tips — free
Security deposit guides, landlord dispute tactics, and more. One email per week.