Are there any laws governing the use of locks in rental properties?

Yes, there are laws governing the use of locks in rental properties in Maryland. According to Maryland’s landlord-tenant law, the landlord must provide the tenant with the right to use “secure locks” on their rental unit door, unless it is a shared door that requires the landlord’s own key. The landlord must also provide the tenant with the key to these secure locks. The landlord in Maryland is also prohibited from changing locks to the tenant’s rental unit without first making the tenant aware. The landlord must also provide the tenant with a copy of the key to the new locks. Furthermore, any lock changes that the landlord chooses to make must be done in a reasonable manner, and the landlord must provide the tenant with 48 hours’ notice before changing the locks. In the event that a tenant wishes to change the locks to their rental unit, they must provide the landlord with a written request that includes the written consent of the landlord. The tenant must then provide the landlord with a copy of the new key to the locks. Finally, the landlord is prohibited from charging the tenant for any lock changes that the landlord elects to make to the rental unit. The tenant is only responsible for any lock changes that they choose to make. Overall, the laws governing the use of locks in rental properties in Maryland are designed to protect both the landlord and the tenant in an effort to ensure that the rental unit remains safe and secure for both parties.

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Are there any laws governing the use of locks in rental properties?

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