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Maryland Security Deposit Return Deadline
The rule
| Deadline | 45 days |
|---|---|
| Maximum deposit | 1 month (2 in a narrow utility-assistance case) |
| Penalty for wrongful withholding | Up to 3x amount withheld, plus fees |
| Statute | Md. Code, Real Prop. § 8-203 |
Maryland deadline calculator
Room-by-room condition report: 12 rooms, 99 items, move-in and move-out columns, signature lines, and tips that win deposit disputes. Works for Maryland rentals. PDF, 5 pages, no sign-up.
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What to send the tenant
Send the remaining deposit, or a written, itemized list of each deduction with its cost (free letter template), to the tenant's forwarding address before the deadline. Keep proof of the date you sent it. Normal wear and tear generally can't be deducted, and a deduction is strongest when your signed move-in report shows the item was in good condition.
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Common questions
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Maryland?
Under Md. Code, Real Prop. § 8-203, a Maryland landlord has 45 days to return the deposit or send an itemized statement of deductions.
What is the maximum security deposit in Maryland?
In Maryland, the security deposit limit is 1 month (2 in a narrow utility-assistance case).
What happens if a Maryland landlord misses the deadline or withholds in bad faith?
The penalty in Maryland: up to 3x amount withheld, plus fees. Missing the deadline can also cost the landlord the right to keep any of the deposit.
Last reviewed November 2026. Summary of Md. Code, Real Prop. § 8-203, cross-checked against multiple published sources. General information, not legal advice. Laws change, and cities and counties can add requirements. Read the statute or ask a local attorney before you act.