By: Josh Bradley, Bryan Saxton & Leah Bartlett*
As explained in our previous client alert, in April 2024, Governor Wes Moore signed House Bill 693 into law, known as the Renters’ Rights Stabilization Act of 2024. One key provision of the bill created an Office of Tenant and Landlord Affairs within the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development. The Office was tasked with developing a Maryland Tenants’ Bill of Rights, which would be required to be included as part of all residential leases. The Bill of Rights aims to summarize residential tenants’ existing rights and the remedies available under state and federal law.
The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development has now published the Maryland Tenants’ Bill of Rights. Effective July 1, 2025, it will be mandatory for all new residential leases in Maryland to include a copy of the most current Bill of Rights as an attachment to the lease. This applies to all leases and lease renewals. You can find a copy of the most recent Maryland Tenants’ Bill of Rights here. The Office of Tenant and Landlord Affairs has provided the Bill of Rights in multiple languages and has made it accessible to individuals using screen readers. The Department of Housing and Community Development intends to update and release the Tenants’ Bill of Rights annually.
If you have questions about how this change affects your leasing process, please contact Josh Bradley or Bryan Saxton at 410.727.6600. RMG is prepared to navigate the complex legal issues that arise with this new requirement and work to ensure you, and your property stay in compliance.
*Law Clerk, 2025