Maryland Rent Increase Laws 2025: What Tenants Should Know

Key Points for Tenants

1. Notice Requirements:
   • For year-long leases, landlords must provide a 90-day written notice before the lease ends if they intend to increase the rent.
   • For month-to-month leases, the notice period is typically one month.
2. Rent Increase Limits:
   • Maryland does not have a statewide cap on rent increases, but local jurisdictions may impose their own limits.
   • Montgomery County allows a maximum rent increase of 6% for the period from July 23, 2024, to June 30, 2025, based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI-U).
   • Some counties limit increases to the lower of 3% plus inflation or 6%.
3. Rent Stabilization:
   • Montgomery County and other localities have rent stabilization policies that tie rent increases to the CPI-U, aiming to keep housing affordable.
4. Tenant Protections:
   • The Renters’ Rights and Stabilization Act of 2024 includes provisions to protect tenants, such as increased fees for filing nonpayment complaints.
   • Tenants cannot be required to pay more than the sum of the security deposit and first month’s rent to commence a tenancy.
5. Local Regulations:
   • Tenants should be aware of specific local regulations in their area, as these can provide additional protections beyond state laws.

What Tenants Can Do

• Stay Informed: Familiarize yourself with local rent control laws and state regulations.
• Review Lease Agreements: Ensure your lease specifies terms for rent increases.
• Seek Legal Advice: If you believe a rent increase is unlawful, consult with local housing authorities or legal counsel.

1. https://www.steadily.com/blog/how-much-can-a-landlord-raise-rent-in-maryland
2. https://www.steadily.com/blog/rent-increase-laws-regulations-maryland
3. https://www.baymgmtgroup.com/blog/what-is-a-reasonable-rent-increase-in-2025/
4. https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DHCA/Tenants/RentStabilization.html