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Maryland Apartment Lease Agreement

A Maryland Apartment Lease Agreement is a legally binding document between a property owner and a renter outlining the terms for leasing a residential or apartment space. To ensure you adhere to the state laws, use our customizable Maryland Apartment Lease Agreement template.

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Maryland Apartment Lease Agreement

This Maryland Apartment Lease Agreement clearly defines the rental fee and the obligations of both parties throughout the lease term. As a standard procedure, the property owner will usually conduct a credit check and confirm the renter’s employment status prior to finalizing the agreement. This ensures a secure and transparent rental process for both parties involved.

Security Deposit 

  • Maximum Amount: The owner can charge up to two (2) months’ rent as a security deposit per unit. 
  • Receipt: Landlords must provide a written receipt for the security deposit, failing which they’re liable for $25. 
  • Bank Account: It must be kept in federally insured financial institutions in Maryland in an account solely for this purpose. Deposits must be made within 30 days of receipt.
  • Return of Deposit to Tenant; Interest: Landlords must return the security deposit, less any rightful deductions, within 45 days after the rental period ends. 
  • Withholding of Deposit: Owners can withhold part of the security deposit for unpaid rent, lease breach damages, or damages beyond ordinary wear and tear to the premises, common areas, major appliances, and landlord-owned furnishings.

Entry and Access 

  • While Maryland doesn’t have specific laws about a landlord’s right of entry, it’s generally advised that landlords provide tenants with a written notice 24 to 48 hours in advance. 
  • It’s also recommended that any visits be scheduled during standard business hours for minimal disruption.

Pets Policy 

A Maryland pet addendum is an additional document to a Maryland Apartment Lease Agreement. It outlines the specific rules and regulations, ensuring the landlord and tenant understand their rights and responsibilities.

When drafting a pet addendum, it should include:

  • Pet Identification: Tenants should provide details about their animals, including names, breeds, sizes, and vaccination records.
  • Pet Responsibilities: It should outline the tenant’s responsibilities, including proper care, grooming, hygiene, leash use in common areas, and prompt clean-up.
  • Property Damages: The occupant’s responsibility for any pet-caused damages to the apartment should be clearly stated, including repair processes or deductions from the security deposit.
  • Noise and Nuisance: It should address noise-related concerns, including provisions about excessive barking, howling, or other nuisance-causing behavior.
  • Pet Deposits or Fees: If the owner requires an additional deposit or fee, the addendum should outline the amount, payment terms, and refund conditions upon move-out.
  • Lease Termination: The grounds for lease termination if the tenant fails to comply with the animal-related provisions should be specified.

Disclosures 

  • Agent/Landlord Identification: The lease must show the landlord’s contact info.
  • Lead-Based Paint Disclosure: Owners must disclose the potential presence of hazardous lead for pre-1978 residences.
  • Move-in/Move-out: The deposit receipt must disclose the occupant’s right to inspect the unit at the end of the tenancy to identify any damages.
  • Habitability: The lease must confirm the property is habitable and detail the occupant’s responsibilities.
  • Ratio Utility Billing System (RUBS) Disclotenants: The owner must provide a written statement with relevant utilities and average monthly utility bills for a ratio utility billing system.