Maryland Deposit Itemization Law at a Glance
Governing Statute
Md. Code, Real Prop. §8-203 — Security Deposits
Itemization Requirement
Your landlord must provide an itemized statement of deductions within 45 calendar days after termination of tenancy.
Allowable Deductions
Unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear, breach of lease provisions. Landlord cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
Normal Wear & Tear
Depreciation, deterioration, or damage that results from normal and expected use of the premises.
Penalty for Wrongful Withholding
If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit or fails to provide proper itemization, you may be entitled to up to treble (triple) the amount wrongfully withheld plus attorney fees under Md. Code, Real Prop. §8-203(e).
Key Facts
- Maximum deposit: 2 months rent
- Itemization required: Within 45 calendar days
- Small claims limit: $5,000
- Interest on deposit: Required by statute
- Walk-through inspection: Tenant has the right to a move-out inspection
Additional Protections
- Landlord must hold deposit in a Maryland financial institution
- Landlord must provide written receipt for deposit
- Tenant entitled to attend a move-out inspection
- Interest required at rate set by state annually
What Your Maryland Dispute Letter Includes
Every letter is built from Maryland's actual statute — not a generic template.
Itemization Requirements
Md. Code, Real Prop. §8-203 cited by section number. Your landlord sees you know the specific rules they must follow.
Disputed Deductions
Each disputed charge identified with your specific reasons, tied to Maryland law.
Wear & Tear Standard
Depreciation, deterioration, or damage that results from normal and expected use of the premises...
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Maryland Deposit Itemization FAQ
What are the security deposit itemization requirements in Maryland?
Under Md. Code, Real Prop. §8-203, your landlord is required to provide an itemized statement of deductions within 45 calendar days after termination of tenancy. The itemization must list each deduction, the amount, and the reason.
What deductions can my Maryland landlord legally take from my deposit?
In Maryland, allowable deductions are limited to: Unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear, breach of lease provisions. Your landlord cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
What counts as normal wear and tear in Maryland?
In Maryland: Depreciation, deterioration, or damage that results from normal and expected use of the premises. Examples include minor scuffs on walls, worn carpet from foot traffic, faded paint, and small nail holes.
What happens if my Maryland landlord wrongfully withholds my deposit?
If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit or fails to provide proper itemization, you may be entitled to up to treble (triple) the amount wrongfully withheld plus attorney fees under Md. Code, Real Prop. §8-203(e). You can pursue this in small claims court.
Can I sue my landlord in small claims court in Maryland?
Yes. Maryland small claims court handles cases up to $5,000. Security deposit disputes are one of the most common small claims cases.
Do I need a lawyer to dispute deposit deductions in Maryland?
No. A dispute letter is a formal written challenge, not a lawsuit. You can send one yourself. Our tool generates a Maryland-specific dispute letter citing Md. Code, Real Prop. §8-203 and your state's itemization requirements so your landlord knows you understand your rights.
Deposit Itemization Dispute Letters by State
Select your state to see your specific rights and generate your letter.