Maryland Security Deposit Limit
1 month's rentMaryland generally caps residential security deposits at 1 month's rent. A lease clause demanding more than that may be unenforceable — the FAQ below covers the exact conditions.
Educational information: generated from our Maryland law database (last updated 2024-10-01). Not legal advice.
How Maryland compares
30 of 51 US jurisdictions cap security deposits by statute; the other 21 set no statewide cap (local caps can still apply in some cities). Here is how Maryland compares with other states in our database.
| State | Security Deposit Limit |
|---|---|
| Maryland | 1 month's rent |
| Massachusetts | 1 month's rent |
| Michigan | 1.5 months' rent |
| Minnesota | no statewide limit (local caps in some cities) |
| Mississippi | no statutory limit |
Frequently asked questions
- How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Maryland?
- Maryland generally limits security deposits to 1 month's rent. Maximum 1 month rent (as of October 1, 2024 - reduced from 2 months). Interest required at higher of Treasury rate or 1.5%/year. Return within 45 days. Penalty: up to 3x amount wrongfully withheld plus attorney fees. Cannot retain solely for lease break - must prove actual damages.
- Does Maryland require landlords to pay interest on security deposits?
- Yes — Maryland requires landlords to pay interest on held security deposits in covered rentals. It is one of 14 US jurisdictions with an interest requirement.
- How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Maryland?
- Maryland landlords generally must return the deposit within 45 days after move-out.
Check Your Lease Against Maryland Law
Not sure whether your lease complies with Maryland law? Upload it and our analyzer flags problem clauses — deposit terms, entry rights, fees and prohibited provisions — using the same statute-backed database this page is generated from.
Analyze My Lease FreeEducational tool — not legal advice. First analysis is free, no signup required.
More Maryland lease law guides
Educational information generated from state statute data — not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney in Maryland for your specific situation.