Maryland’s rent increase laws for 2025 are shaped by various regulations designed to protect tenants while allowing landlords to manage their properties effectively. Here are key points tenants should be aware of:
Notice Requirements for Rent Increases
- Long-Term Leases: For leases longer than one month, landlords must provide a 90-day notice before implementing a rent increase.
- Short-Term Leases: For leases between one week and one month, a 60-day notice is required. For oral leases of a week or less, only a 21-day notice is necessary.
- Written Contracts for Short Leases: If the lease is written and lasts one week or less, landlords must give a 7-day notice.
Annual Rent Increase Limitations
- Maryland does not have a statewide cap on annual rent increases; however, local jurisdictions may impose their own limits. For instance, Montgomery County has implemented rent stabilization measures that link allowable increases to the Consumer Price Index (CPI-U) plus an additional percentage, typically capping increases at 6% for rent-stabilized units.
- In Montgomery County, the maximum allowable rent increase from July 23, 2024, to June 30, 2025, is set at 6%, ensuring that increases remain manageable for tenants.
Rent Stabilization Ordinances
- Areas like Montgomery County and Baltimore City have specific ordinances aimed at controlling excessive rent increases. These ordinances often tie allowable increases to inflation rates as measured by the CPI, helping to keep housing affordable.
- The Renters’ Rights and Stabilization Act of 2024, signed into law in Maryland, further protects tenants from unjustified rent hikes and outlines the legal frameworks for landlords.
Fair Return on Rental Properties
- While tenant protections are emphasized, landlords are entitled to earn a fair return on their investments. This balance is crucial to ensure that properties remain maintained and livable. Legal counsel may be advisable for landlords when determining permissible rent increases to avoid potential disputes with tenants.
Tenants in Maryland should stay informed about their rights regarding rent increases and the specific regulations applicable in their locality. Understanding these laws can help tenants navigate potential changes in their rental agreements and advocate for fair treatment under the law.
SOURCES
[1] https://www.steadily.com/blog/rent-increase-laws-regulations-maryland
[2] https://www.steadily.com/blog/mid-term-rental-laws-regulations-maryland
[3] https://takomaparkmd.gov/1594/Rent-Stabilization-Rent-Increase-Allowan
[4] https://www.baymgmtgroup.com/blog/what-is-a-reasonable-rent-increase-in-2025/
