Maryland caps most security deposits at one month's rent for leases entered on or after October 1, 2024, down from the old two-month limit. Landlords must return the deposit with interest within 45 days after the tenancy ends and provide an itemized list of any damages claimed within the same window.
Under Md. Code, Real Property § 8-203(b)(1), "a landlord may not impose a security deposit in excess of the equivalent of 1 month's rent"; § 8-203(b)(2) allows up to two months' rent only where the tenant qualifies for utility assistance, pays utilities to the landlord, and the parties agree in writing. The deposit accrues interest at the greater of the one-year U.S. Treasury yield or 1.5% per year, payable on deposits of $50 or more held at least six months (§ 8-203(e)). Within 45 days after the tenancy ends, the landlord must return the deposit with interest, less lawful deductions, and § 8-203(g) requires a written itemized list of damages claimed and the cost incurred within that same 45-day period.
Under Md. Real Prop. § 8-203(e)(4), a landlord who withholds a security deposit in violation of the statute is liable to the tenant for up to three times the amount wrongfully withheld, plus reasonable attorney's fees. Charging a deposit above the cap exposes the landlord to treble the excess amount under § 8-203(b)(3).
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Gaithersburg, MD
Montgomery County Bill 35-20 bans gas-powered leaf blowers countywide effective January 1, 2025, which applies within Gaithersburg. Only battery-electric and...
Gaithersburg, MD
Gaithersburg enforces noise regulations under City Code Chapter 15 and Montgomery County Code Chapter 31B. Noise that is plainly audible beyond property boun...
Gaithersburg, MD
Gaithersburg addresses barking dog complaints through City Code Chapter 15 noise provisions and Montgomery County animal control regulations. Dogs that bark ...
Gaithersburg, MD
Montgomery County Code Chapter 31B sets specific decibel limits for Gaithersburg based on zoning and time of day. Residential zones are limited to 65 dBA day...
Gaithersburg, MD
Gaithersburg requires EV charging pre-wiring in new residential construction. Maryland law effective October 2022 prohibits non-EVs from parking in designate...
Gaithersburg, MD
Gaithersburg regulates street parking through Chapter 14 of the city code and a Residential Permit Parking program updated in 2025. Parking restrictions vary...
See how Gaithersburg's security deposit rules rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.