What rights does a tenant have if the landlord fails to provide a habitable living environment?

In Maryland, tenants have legal rights if their landlords fail to provide a habitable living environment. Tenants have the right to receive a dwelling that meets the basic standards of livability, which includes the right to a safe and sanitary living space. Tenants also have the right to receive proper notice before any eviction process begins, so that they can take steps to remedy the situation. One of the most important rights a tenant has in this situation is the right to withhold rent. In Maryland, a tenant can withhold rent if the landlord fails to remedy a serious habitability issue. This includes issues such as an infestation of pests, inadequate sewage systems, a lack of running water, or any other issue that renders the dwelling uninhabitable. This does not apply to non-serious issues such as noise or parking problems. Additionally, tenants can file a suit against the landlord to contract damages or to force the landlord to make repairs. Furthermore, tenants can file a complaint with the Maryland Department of Labor, Licensing, and Regulation. This department can investigate the issue and force the landlord to make repairs or face a fine. It is important for tenants to know their rights when it comes to a landlord’s failure to provide a habitable living environment. Tenants should make sure to document any issues and seek legal advice if necessary. By doing so, tenants can make sure that their basic rights are protected.

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What rights does a tenant have if the landlord fails to provide a habitable living environment?

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