Maryland Security Deposit Law
When do I get my deposit back in Maryland?
Your Maryland landlord has 45 days to return your security deposit after you move out. Calculate your exact deadline below — and if they're late, generate a free demand letter.
Maryland Security Deposit Law
Return Deadline
45 days after move-out
Penalty for Late Return
Landlord forfeits the right to withhold; you can recover up to three times the amount wrongfully withheld, plus attorney's fees
Additional Notes
Must include a written list of damages
Legal Source
Md. Code, Real Prop. § 8-203 →Know someone renting in Maryland?
Calculate Your Maryland Deadline
Click to select or drag your lease here
PDF, PNG, JPEG, or WebP — max 7MB
Your lease is processed by AI to extract details and is not stored after processing.
Maryland Security Deposit FAQ
How long does a Maryland landlord have to return my deposit?
In Maryland, landlords are required to return your security deposit within 45 days after you move out. The landlord must include a written list of damages.
What if my Maryland landlord misses the deadline?
Landlord forfeits the right to withhold, and you can recover up to three times the amount wrongfully withheld, plus attorney's fees. If your landlord fails to meet the 45-day deadline, you may have legal recourse to recover your deposit plus additional damages.
Can my landlord make deductions from my deposit?
Yes, Maryland landlords can deduct for unpaid rent and damages beyond normal wear and tear. However, they must provide an itemized statement of deductions within the 45-day window.
How do I write a demand letter for my deposit in Maryland?
A demand letter should include your name, the property address, move-out date, deposit amount, and a citation of Maryland's 45-day deadline. Send it via certified mail. Generate a free demand letter here.
Maryland Security Deposit Guides
Sue Your Landlord in Maryland
Small claims court guide for Maryland
Maryland Demand Letter
Free demand letter template for Maryland tenants
Complete Deposit Recovery Guide
Step-by-step guide to getting your full deposit back
Normal Wear vs. Damage
What your landlord can't charge you for
What Can Landlords Deduct?
Know which deductions are valid
Document Your Move-Out
Photo guide to protecting your deposit
Maryland City Guides
Get your free Maryland deposit guide
We'll email you Maryland's 45-day deadline, penalty rules, and step-by-step action plan.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Landlord missed the deadline?
Generate a free demand letter citing Maryland law. Most landlords respond within days when they receive a formal written demand.
Generate free demand letter