What are the laws governing rental agreements?

Rental agreements in Maryland are governed by state law. The landlord and tenant must obey the terms of the lease or rental agreement and the Maryland Code. A rental agreement is a legally binding contract that sets out the rights and obligations of both the landlord and the tenant. The rental agreement should include important information about the terms of the tenancy such as the rent amount, payment schedule, and security deposit details. It should also specify the landlord’s and tenant’s rights and responsibilities including repairs and maintenance, tenant’s right to privacy, and eviction notice periods. The law in Maryland requires that landlords and tenants follow certain obligations, such as providing at least 30 days’ written notice of a change in terms or notice of termination of the lease. The landlord is also required to make repairs in a “reasonable” time frame, while tenants must keep the property clean and in condition. In addition, the landlord must return the security deposit within 45 days of the end of the tenancy. In the event of damage to the property beyond ordinary wear and tear, the tenant is responsible for the cost of repair. The rules and regulations governing rental agreements vary from state to state. Knowing your rights and obligations are important for both tenant and landlord; an experienced attorney can provide legal advice and assistance when navigating landlord-tenant law.

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