How can a tenant protect their security deposit?

In Maryland, tenants renting residential housing have certain rights when it comes to their security deposit. In order to protect their security deposit, tenants should take a few steps. First, the tenant should ask for a detailed receipt from the landlord that includes the name and address of the landlord, the amount of the security deposit, and the date it was received. This receipt should also include a list of all damages that exist in the rental property before the tenant moves in. This way, the landlord can be held accountable for any damages that occur during the tenancy. Second, the tenant should also take pictures of the property on the day they move in to document any existing damages. These pictures should be kept in a safe place for future reference. Third, a tenant should keep a record of all payments made to the landlord throughout the tenancy. This can include rent payments, utility bills, and security deposits. By keeping track of all payments, the tenant can ensure that their security deposit will be returned in a timely manner when they move out. Finally, the tenant should inform the landlord of any repairs or maintenance issues that come up during the tenancy. This way, the landlord can address these issues in order to protect the security deposit. By following these steps, tenants in Maryland can ensure that their security deposit is protected. This can help to avoid potential disputes between the tenant and landlord when the tenancy ends.

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How can a tenant protect their security deposit?

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