Landlords & Tenants: Tips on Avoiding Disputes

Disputes between residential landlords and tenants are one of our office's most high-volume subjects. Our goal is to foster positive communications and understanding between both parties that leads to a smooth rental experience.

The Office of the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division has created this booklet to help renters and residential property owners understand their respective rights and obligations, as well as the remedies that are available under Maryland law. It covers a broad range of issues, such as applications, leases, security deposits, rent escrow, lead-based paint hazards, eviction, and where to seek help if problems arise.

This booklet covers state law. Different landlord/tenant laws may exist at the local level that may provide additional protections or require you to follow different procedures.

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