If you’re planning on renting a property, knowing your rights as a tenant is crucial. Federal laws like the Fair Housing Act protect every tenant. However, there are several more state and local laws to be aware of to protect yourself as a renter. So, if you’re renting a property in Maryland, 
read along as we uncover ten Baltimore tenant rights every renter should know.
Contents of This Article:
- Federal Landlord-Tenant Laws
- 10 Baltimore Tenant Rights Every Renter Should Know
- What to Do If Your Rights Are Violated
- Find a Trusted Property Management Company
Federal Landlord-Tenant Laws
Whether you’re a landlord or a Baltimore property management company, you know that there are several laws to follow when leasing properties. While each state may have its own set of landlord-tenant laws, there are some federal laws that protect every renter in the US.
For instance, every landlord must adhere to the Fair Housing Act (FHA), Fair Crediting Reporting Act (FCRA), Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and more. Here are some of the details of each of these important laws.
Fair Housing Act
The Fair Housing Act (FHA) ensures that each tenant has equal access to housing opportunities. It prohibits housing discrimination due to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability. It also extends beyond leasing and prohibits landlords from marketing their rentals to certain groups of people. For instance, landlords cannot advertise their rentals as “women only” or “no children allowed.”
Fair Crediting Reporting Act
Another crucial law to know about is the Fair Crediting Report Act (FCRA), which regulates how landlords can use a tenant’s credit information for screening purposes. Under the FCRA, landlords must ask permission before running a credit report and provide information on the credit reporting agency used. Additionally, if they decide to deny an applicant, they must give the tenant a specific reason for the denial.
Americans With Disabilities Act
The Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) is another important law for landlords and tenants to know about. Under the ADA, landlords must make reasonable accommodations for tenants with disabilities. For instance, this may include allowing service animals in a building that doesn’t allow pets or modifying a unit to ensure it’s accessible for a tenant in a wheelchair.
10 Baltimore Tenant Rights Every Renter Should Know
While every landlord must follow federal landlord-tenant laws, each state may have its own renters laws to follow. If you’re thinking about renting in Baltimore, here are ten essential rights that all tenants should know about.
Right to a Habitable Home
Baltimore tenants have the right to a habitable home, meaning that the rental property meets basic health and safety standards. That said, landlords are responsible for ensuring the home is free from hazards and has working utilities like plumbing, heating, electricity, and proper sanitation.
Right to Privacy
Landlords in Baltimore must respect their tenants’ right to privacy. For instance, they’re generally required to provide at least 24 hours notice before entering the rental property for any reason unless there’s an emergency.
Protection Against Discrimination
All tenants are protected under the federal Fair Housing Act, and Maryland tenants are protected under the Maryland Fair Housing Act. This protection ensures that tenants cannot be discriminated against based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, familial status, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity.
Right to Reasonable Rent Increases
While there are no rent control laws in Baltimore, there are certain standards regarding rent increases. For instance, landlords must provide proper notice (usually 60 days) before increasing the rental rate. Additionally, increases must be reasonable and not in retaliation for a tenant exercising their legal rights.
Right to Timely Repairs and Maintenance
Landlords must keep their rental properties in livable condition, meaning they must promptly respond to repairs or maintenance requests. Baltimore tenants have the right to request and receive timely repairs for issues that impact the habitability of their rental unit.
Right to Security Deposit Protections
Landlords in Baltimore can charge a security deposit. However, it cannot exceed two months’ rent. Additionally, the deposit must be returned within 45 days after the lease ends, with or without deductions for damages or unpaid rent. Landlords must provide tenants with an itemized list if there are any deductions.
Right to Withhold Rent for Unaddressed Issues
If your landlord doesn’t make necessary repairs after being notified, you may be entitled to withhold rent. For instance, if you notified your landlord about a pest infestation and they didn’t respond or fix it within a certain timeframe, you may choose to withhold your next rent payment. However, tenants should follow proper legal procedures, like holding the rent in an escrow account with the District Court.
Right to a Written Lease
Baltimore tenants are entitled to a written lease agreement that clearly outlines the terms and conditions of the rental arrangement. The lease should have all the essentials, including the rent amount, lease duration, and responsibilities of both the tenant and landlord.
Right to Protection From Retaliation
Baltimore law protects tenants from landlord retaliation for exercising their legal rights. For example, tenants can report health and safety violations without the threat of eviction, rent increases, or lack of essential services as punishment.
Right to Due Process in Eviction
It’s illegal for tenants in Baltimore to be evicted without proper legal notice and a court order. For instance, landlords must provide a valid reason, like non-payment of rent or lease violations, and proceed with the legal eviction process. If they fail to follow the proper procedures, you may be able to take them to court and regain possession of the rental.
What to Do If Your Rights Are Violated
If you feel that your rights as a tenant are violated, you’ll want to act quickly. There are a few essential steps to take, including the following.
- Review Your Lease- If you think you’re being treated unfairly, the first thing you should do is check your lease agreement. It’s important that you understand your rights and your landlord’s obligations under the lease you both signed.
- Document the Incident- You’ll want to document any relevant documents and written communications with your landlord so you have as much evidence as possible. If the violation involves a physical issue, make sure you take photos to provide evidence.
- Communicate With Your Landlord- Consider writing a formal letter or email to your landlord stating the issue and requesting a resolution. Remember to mention specific points from your lease and reference any relevant Baltimore laws.
- File a Complaint– If your landlord doesn’t take any action to resolve the issue, you can file a complaint with the Baltimore Housing Authority. They can investigate housing code violations and enforce any necessary actions. Additionally, if you’re having issues regarding the health and safety of your rental, you can contact your local health department.
- Take Legal Action- If the violation is severe or ongoing, you may need to find an attorney for legal advice or to represent you in court, if necessary. For financial disputes like security deposit issues, you may be able to file a claim in small claims court.
Find a Trusted Property Management Company
Now that you know your Baltimore tenant rights, it’s important to know what to do when they’re violated. Knowing who to contact is crucial in addressing the issue and finding a resolution.
If you’re looking at renting from a trusted property management company, look no further than BMG. Bay Property Management Group has an extensive team of professionals who can help you move into your next rental home swiftly.
Need More Advice? contact us today!
On the other hand, if you’re a landlord looking for a team that will ensure you’re in compliance with all federal, state, and local laws, we’re here for you! Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive rental management services throughout Baltimore, Philadelphia, Northern Virginia, and Washington, DC.
