The Changing Landscape of Maryland Landlord-Tenant Law: What Property Owners in Berlin & Ocean City Need to Know
Evolving Challenges in Maryland’s Rental Regulations
Over the past decade, Maryland Landlord-Tenant Law has undergone significant transformation, especially affecting property owners and managers in Berlin, MD and Ocean City, MD. What was once a relatively straightforward process has evolved into a highly regulated, procedural system that requires precision at every stage—from lease preparation to eviction filings.
Because new laws and procedural rules are introduced almost yearly, even seasoned landlords can find themselves out of compliance. Having knowledgeable legal guidance from an attorney like Peter Buas ensures that every action—from tenant screening to court filings—meets Maryland’s exacting standards.
2018: Licensing Requirements Take Hold
Since 2018, landlords must maintain proper licenses and registrations before filing a Failure to Pay Rent action. These include:
A valid local rental license where required by the jurisdiction (including Worcester County communities such as Berlin, MD and Ocean City, MD).
A valid lead registration certificate for properties built before 1978, ensuring compliance with Maryland’s lead risk reduction standards.
Missing or expired documents can lead to court dismissal of an eviction case, delays, or even legal penalties—underscoring the need for experienced legal representation.
2021: Ten-Day Pre-Filing Notice Requirement
Effective October 1, 2021, landlords must deliver a 10-Day Notice of Intent to File before initiating a Failure to Pay Rent action. This notice:
Must be issued using the official court form.
Must be properly served and documented.
Serves as a final opportunity for tenants to cure nonpayment before court involvement.
This rule places new emphasis on documentation and compliance, particularly for property owners in Berlin, MD and Ocean City, MD managing seasonal or short-term rental properties.
2022: Enhanced Disclosure Obligations
By 2022, Maryland expanded landlord disclosure requirements, including:
Utility billing transparency through ratio utility billing systems (RUBS).
Detailed security deposit itemizations with full written documentation.
Expanded recordkeeping obligations throughout the lease term.
These measures require landlords to carefully maintain organized, accurate records for each tenancy—something our office helps clients manage efficiently.
2024: The Renters’ Rights and Stabilization Act
The Renters’ Rights and Stabilization Act of 2024 brought extensive reform to Maryland’s landlord-tenant framework:
Eviction filing fees increased.
Security deposits capped at one month’s rent (with narrow exceptions).
Introduction of a tenant right of first refusal, requiring landlords to notify tenants before marketing a property for sale.
For property owners in Berlin and Ocean City, these changes add timing and procedural challenges—especially in the vacation rental market, where timing of sales is often crucial.
2025: The Maryland Tenants’ Bill of Rights
Beginning July 1, 2025, every residential lease in Maryland must include the Maryland Tenants’ Bill of Rights, a standardized DHCD document. Landlords must:
Attach the unaltered DHCD version to each new or renewed lease.
Cap late fees at 5% of the monthly rent installment (not the total overdue balance).
Follow new notice and waiting requirements before enforcing a warrant of restitution.
Additional obligations include mold disclosures, application fee limitations, and tenant screening transparency—expanding landlord duties from the application stage through post-tenancy.
The Rising Need for Experienced Legal Representation
Given the expanding web of compliance obligations, even a minor error can result in dismissal or delay of an eviction case. In 2021, Maryland launched the Access to Counsel in Evictions Program, providing tenants with free legal representation in court. As a result, landlords now face trained tenant attorneys, increasing the importance of professional representation.
Our firm, led by attorney Peter Buas, provides comprehensive landlord guidance and defense—ensuring your filings, notices, and leases meet every procedural and statutory requirement.
How Our Firm Helps Landlords Stay Compliant
Our law firm assists property owners and managers across Worcester County, including Berlin and Ocean City, with:
Lease drafting and review in compliance with the latest Maryland statutes.
Rental license verification and lead certification management.
Eviction preparation and defense, ensuring court readiness.
Ongoing compliance audits to proactively meet legislative changes.
We also provide broader legal support for general real estate matters and real estate settlements, helping property owners protect and grow their investments.
Why Landlords in Berlin and Ocean City Choose Peter Buas
Local landlords choose Peter Buas because he combines legal precision with a deep understanding of Maryland’s real estate landscape. His firm offers:
In-depth knowledge of Maryland landlord-tenant law.
Proven experience representing landlords in Worcester County District Court.
Personalized legal strategies for both residential and commercial properties.
Up-to-date guidance on legislative changes impacting Berlin and Ocean City landlords.
FAQs About Maryland Landlord-Tenant Law (2025 Updates)
Q1: Do I need a rental license to file an eviction in Ocean City, MD?
Yes. Ocean City requires a valid rental license prior to any eviction filing. Noncompliance may result in dismissal.
Q2: How does the Maryland Tenants’ Bill of Rights affect my lease?
Starting July 1, 2025, landlords must attach the DHCD’s official Bill of Rights to every new or renewed lease.
Q3: Can I still charge two months’ rent as a security deposit?
No. Under the 2024 Act, security deposits are capped at one month’s rent.
Q4: What does the “right of first refusal” mean for landlords?
You must give tenants written notice and an opportunity to purchase the property before marketing it publicly.
Q5: Why should I hire an attorney for eviction cases?
Given Maryland’s Access to Counsel in Evictions program, landlords face professional tenant attorneys in court. A lawyer ensures your filings and evidence are legally sound.
Q6: How can your firm assist Berlin and Ocean City landlords?
We handle everything from lease drafting to eviction representation, ensuring compliance at every step of the landlord-tenant process.
Stay Compliant, Stay Protected
The Maryland landlord-tenant legal environment continues to grow in complexity. For landlords in Berlin, MD and Ocean City, MD, staying compliant isn’t just good practice—it’s essential protection.
With guidance from Peter Buas and his experienced team, landlords can navigate new laws confidently, protect their assets, and avoid costly legal missteps.
Ready to ensure your leases and filings comply with Maryland’s latest laws?
Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and protect your investment. For the most current version of the Maryland Tenants’ Bill of Rights, visit the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD).