What’s the Renter’s Rights and Stabilization Act of 2024? House Bill 693 updated Maryland’s landlord-tenant laws with some key changes.

For nonpayment of rent complaints, the filing fee for landlords has gone up, and they can only charge this to tenants if they win a court judgment and the lease allows for it. If a court awards a surcharge, it can’t exceed the tenant’s security deposit, protecting renters’ rights.

Regarding security deposits, landlords can now only charge up to one month’s rent, which is a change from the previous two-month limit. They also can’t keep the deposit for lease breaches unless they can prove actual damages or a legally authorized surcharge. This change strengthens renters’ rights significantly.

Please click ‘HERE’ for the most updated pricing for Failure to Pay, Breach of Lease, Wrongful Detainer, and Tenant Holdover. 

Maryland Tenants’ Bill of Rights

The Renters’ Rights and Stabilization Act establishes an Office of Tenant and Landlord Affairs to ensure tenants have access to resources that help them understand and exercise their rights under state law. This office will provide information on how to report legal violations, access financial counselling, and notify authorities about housing discrimination. They’re also responsible for developing a Maryland Tenants’ Bill of Rights, a significant document for renters’ rights.

Landlords must give tenants the latest version of the Maryland Tenants’ Bill of Rights when they sign the lease. “Renters’ rights must be clearly communicated.”

Tenant’s Right of First Refusal

House Bill 693 updates the regulations for residential rental properties. Owners must provide written notice to tenants about their right to make an offer to purchase the property before it is listed for sale, with some exceptions. This right of first refusal can be quite complex. If a property owner doesn’t follow the rules, a tenant can file a notice that could complicate the sale process, further enforcing renters’ rights.

Most of these changes will take effect on October 1, 2025, and will impact all landlords and property owners in Maryland.