In Maryland, there is no statewide rent control, meaning landlords are generally free to set rent prices as they see fit at the end of a lease term. However, significant tenant protections and local ordinances exist to govern how these increases are communicated and capped in certain jurisdictions.
Notice Requirements for Rent Increases
State law requires landlords to provide formal written notice before implementing a rent increase. For lease terms longer than one month, landlords are mandated to provide at least 90 days’ written notice.
For tenancies lasting longer than one week but not exceeding one month, a 60-day notice is required. Proper notice is essential, as failing to adhere to these timelines can render the rent increase legally unenforceable.
Local Rent Stabilization Measures
While Maryland lacks a universal rent cap, specific counties have enacted their own stabilization measures to protect tenants from excessive hikes. Understanding these local rules is critical, as they often supersede general state practices:
- Montgomery County: As of early 2026, the maximum allowable rent increase for many regulated units is capped at 5.7% (linked to the Consumer Price Index plus 3%, with a 6% hard cap).
- Prince George’s County: This jurisdiction maintains specific rent stabilization rules, often limiting increases based on inflation and income eligibility requirements for certain tenants.
- Other Jurisdictions: In areas such as Baltimore or Anne Arundel County, there are typically no local rent control caps, leaving the determination of rent largely to the landlord, provided they abide by lease terms and mandatory notice periods.
Tenant Rights and Protections
Tenants in Maryland have the right to challenge rent increases if they believe the landlord has failed to follow statutory notice requirements or local rent control ordinances.
Because rent increases are only permitted upon lease renewal (and never during the term of a fixed-lease agreement), tenants should carefully review their lease documents to ensure the increase aligns with the agreed-upon terms. If a landlord attempts to raise rent without sufficient notice or in violation of local caps, tenants may pursue legal action or seek assistance from local housing authorities.
SOURCES:
- https://www.steadily.com/blog/rent-increase-laws-regulations-maryland
- https://lusk-law.com/maryland-rent-increase-notice-60-90-days-2023-law/
