Security deposit law in Maryland

One month's rent. The return rule is 45 days. The controlling text is Md. Real Prop. § 8-203.

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Maryland's deposit ceiling

One month's rent.

For leases signed on or after October 1, 2024, the cap is one month's rent; the prior ceiling was two months.

Maryland's return deadline

45 days.

You have 45 days after the tenancy ends to return the deposit with any accrued interest, or to send a written itemized list of damages by first-class mail within 45 days if you are keeping any of it. The list is what preserves a deduction.

The itemized statement rule

A written list of damages with the actual cost, sent by first-class mail within 45 days, is required when you withhold. A tenant who asks by certified mail before move-out has the right to be present at the inspection.

Account and interest rules

Deposits must be held in a Maryland financial institution, and you must pay the tenant simple interest at the statutory rate for deposits held at least six months.

Exposure for wrongful withholding

Up to 3x plus attorney fees.

A landlord who withholds in violation of the statute can be liable for up to three times the amount wrongfully withheld plus reasonable attorney fees, and charging more than the legal cap carries the same treble exposure on the excess. The interest and the 45-day list are both strict.

Compare Maryland with neighboring states

• Virginia: two months' rent; return rule: 45 days.
• District of Columbia: one month's rent; return rule: 45 days.
• Delaware: one month's rent; return rule: 20 days.
• Pennsylvania: two months' rent (first year); return rule: 30 days.
• West Virginia: no statutory limit; return rule: 60 days.