New Maryland Landlord-Tenant Law: What Owners and Renters Need to Know About Late Notices and Evictions

Maryland has recently updated landlord-tenant laws that affect how late fees are charged and how eviction notices are delivered. These changes, effective October 2024, are designed to create more fairness and transparency in the rental process. As a property owner—or a tenant—it’s important to understand what these updates mean for you.

Key Changes to Late Notices and Evictions

1. Late Fee Limits

Landlords may now charge up to 5% only on the unpaid portion of rent for that pay period, not the total rent amount. This prevents tenants from being overcharged if they make partial payments.

2. Six-Day Eviction Notice Requirement

Once a court issues a warrant of restitution (the final step in eviction), landlords must provide tenants with at least six days’ written notice before eviction can take place.

• Notices must be sent by first-class mail with certificate of mailing

• Posted visibly on the property door with a date-stamped photo

• And, if possible, delivered electronically (email/text) if the landlord has the tenant’s information
  

3. Notice of Intent to File for Eviction

Before filing a failure-to-pay eviction, landlords are required to issue a Notice of Intent to File (Form DC-CV-115). Tenants then have 10 days to pay the overdue rent before legal action begins.

4. Tenant’s Right to Redemption (“Pay to Stay”)

Even after a judgment is entered, tenants may stop the eviction by paying all owed rent, late fees, and court costs before the scheduled eviction. However, this right is limited if the tenant has had three or more judgments for rent due within the last 12 months.

What This Means for Landlords

• Update your lease agreements and policies to reflect the new 5% late fee cap.

• Incorporate the six-day eviction notice into your processes and document delivery methods.

• Always issue the required Notice of Intent (DC-CV-115) before filing an eviction complaint.

• Keep detailed records (photos, certificates of mailing, copies of notices) to ensure legal compliance.
  

What This Means for Tenants

• You now have stronger protections and clearer notice requirements before eviction.

• If you receive a Notice of Intent to File, you have 10 days to resolve the issue by paying rent or working with your landlord.

• Even after a judgment, you may be able to stop eviction by paying in full before the sheriff executes the warrant.

• Remember that landlords cannot remove you without a court order and proper notice.
  

Final Thoughts

Maryland’s updated laws are designed to improve fairness, protect tenants, and clarify landlords’ responsibilities. For property owners, these changes highlight the importance of having professional management that stays current with evolving regulations.

At idBliss Property Group, we ensure landlords remain compliant while protecting their investments and maintaining strong tenant relationships. If you own rental property in Maryland and want peace of mind knowing your operations follow the latest legal standards, contact us today to learn how we can help.