Md. Real Property § 8-203
Free Maryland residential lease template.
Maryland caps security deposits at 2 months rent and requires return within 45 days with interest if the deposit is held 6+ months (Md. Real Prop. § 8-203). For pre-1978 properties, landlords must register with the Maryland Department of the Environment under the Lead Risk Reduction in Housing Act.
Template information updated September 2026.
Download blank Maryland lease (PDF or Word)
Free download. 4 statute citations and 3 state-specific disclosures included. Email is required for access; marketing consent is optional.
What is in this Maryland template
The template is organized around the state statutes summarized below and identifies state-specific disclosures such as Lead Risk Reduction registration (pre-1978) and Move-in/out inspection right. Some notices use prescribed statutory wording and should not be removed without checking the cited law.
Md. Real Prop. § 8-203(b)
Security deposit cap
Capped at 2× monthly rent; treble damages for overcharge.
Md. Real Prop. § 8-203(e)
Deposit return + interest
45 days; interest if held 6+ months.
Md. Real Prop. § 8-208(d)(3)
Late fee cap
Capped at 5% of rent.
Md. Real Prop. § 8-211
Rent escrow
Tenant remedy for serious habitability threats.
Required disclosures in Maryland
- ·Lead Risk Reduction registration (pre-1978)
- ·Move-in/out inspection right
- ·Federal lead-paint (pre-1978)
Quick reference for Maryland landlords
| Security deposit cap | 2× |
|---|---|
| Deposit return deadline | 45 days from move-out |
| Notice before entry | No statutory minimum — courts require "reasonable notice" |
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Is the template really free?
Yes. An email address is required to access the download, but creating an account and joining marketing emails are not required.
Can I edit it in Microsoft Word?
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Does it cover local city rules?
It covers the statewide foundation described on this page. Cities and counties may impose additional rent-control, disclosure, licensing, or eviction requirements, so check the rules where the property is located.
LeaseDrafts is a document generator, not a law firm, and does not provide legal advice. This template is based on the Maryland landlord-tenant code as of the date shown on the document. Always review the final lease with a licensed Maryland attorney before using it.