Maryland Security Deposit Laws 2026
Here's what Maryland law says about security deposit returns, deadlines, and penalties. All information is sourced from MD Real Prop. Code § 8-203.
Return Deadline
45 calendar days
from move-out date to return your deposit
Penalty for Violations
Up to 3x your deposit amount
Requires a finding of bad faith by the landlord.
If the landlord violates the deadline, they may forfeit ALL right to withhold any portion of your deposit.
Deposit Cap
Maximum security deposit: 2 months rent
Itemization Requirements
- Itemized statement required: Yes
- Itemization deadline: 45 days
- Receipts required: Yes
Interest Requirements
Interest on your deposit is required (rate varies).
Statute of Limitations
- Written lease: 3 years
- Oral lease: 3 years
Small Claims Court
Maximum claim: $5,000
Attorney fee shifting available — you may recover attorney fees if you win.
Primary Statute
Important Exceptions & Edge Cases
MD Real Prop. § 8-203(e): Landlord must pay interest at the rate published annually by the Maryland Department of Housing. Must be in interest-bearing account. Failure to pay interest gives tenant additional claims.
MD Real Prop. § 8-203.1: Landlord must provide tenant written notice of their right to be present at a move-out inspection. Must be sent 15 days before end of tenancy.
Think your landlord violated Maryland law?
Generate a demand letter that cites MD Real Prop. Code § 8-203 and puts your landlord on notice.
This is not legal advice. Reclaim provides legal information and document generation tools. The information on this page is sourced from MD Real Prop. Code § 8-203 and is current as of January 1, 2024. For specific legal questions, consult a licensed attorney in Maryland.