What fees must be disclosed before signing a lease?

Understanding Rent-Related Fee Disclosures in Maryland for Tenants

When renting a property in Maryland, it is important for tenants to know which fees landlords are required to disclose prior to signing a lease. Transparency in fee disclosures helps tenants make informed decisions and avoid unexpected financial obligations. Maryland state laws set clear expectations for landlords regarding the disclosure of rent-related fees, security deposits, and other charges associated with leasing a rental unit.

This guide outlines the key fees that must be disclosed in Maryland before you enter into a lease agreement, helping you understand your rights and what to expect from your landlord.

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Key Fees That Must Be Disclosed Before Signing a Lease in Maryland

1. Security Deposit Amount and Terms

In Maryland, landlords must clearly disclose:

• The exact amount of the security deposit. There is no statutory limit on the amount a landlord may demand, but it must be stated upfront.
• The conditions for withholding or returning the security deposit. Landlords are required to provide written notice about the security deposit terms.
• Where the security deposit will be held. Maryland law requires landlords to place the deposit in a federally insured bank or savings and loan institution in Maryland and notify the tenant of the location and terms.
• Timeframe for return. Maryland mandates landlords to return the security deposit within 45 days after the tenant vacates the property, along with an itemized list of any damages or reasons for withholding.

2. Rent Amount and Payment Terms

Before signing a lease, the landlord must provide clear information about:

• Monthly rent amount. The total rent you are obligated to pay each month.
• Due date and late fees. When the rent is due and whether late fees apply if payment is delayed, including the maximum late fee allowed by law or contract.
• Accepted payment methods. How and where rent should be paid (e.g., check, money order, electronic payment).

3. Non-Refundable Fees

Maryland law differentiates between refundable and non-refundable fees. Landlords must disclose any non-refundable fees before you sign the lease, such as:

• Application fees
• Administrative or processing fees
• Cleaning fees, if charged upfront and non-refundable

Although Maryland law does not explicitly limit the amount of application fees, landlords generally must disclose these fees and if they are non-refundable.

4. Pet Fees or Deposits

If a tenant is allowed or required to have pets on the property, the landlord must disclose:

• Pet deposit amount or pet fees. These may or may not be refundable, but the exact amount or fee must be stated.
• Any additional pet-related charges. For example, monthly pet rent or fees for damage caused by pets.

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Additional Important Disclosures

5. Fee for Returned Checks

If you pay rent by check, Maryland landlords may charge a fee for returned checks but must disclose this fee in writing before the lease is signed. The typical returned check fee is often outlined in the lease agreement.

6. Fees for Repairs or Maintenance

While many repairs and maintenance fees are typically the landlord’s responsibility, any fees you may be responsible for must be disclosed upfront. For example:

• Charges for key replacement
• Fees if you request non-standard repairs or services

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Maryland Law Supporting Fee Disclosures

Maryland’s Real Property Article, Title 8, Subtitle 2 governs landlords' responsibilities regarding security deposits and fees. It requires landlords to provide tenants with a written receipt for any money collected and detailed disclosures about the handling and return of security deposits.

Additionally, local rental laws may impose further requirements or limits on fees, especially in larger cities or jurisdictions within Maryland. However, statewide, the emphasis is on full disclosure and written agreements.

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Importance of Written Leases and Disclosures

• Maryland law strongly encourages leases to be in writing to clearly establish all terms, including fees.
• Verbal agreements about fees, deposits, or rent amounts are difficult to enforce.
• Make sure every fee—whether refundable or non-refundable—is explicitly stated in the lease or an addendum.
• Ask the landlord for a complete list of all fees in writing before signing.

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Tips for Maryland Tenants Regarding Rent and Fee Disclosures

• Request a copy of the lease early to review all fees carefully.
• Document all payments and communications with the landlord concerning fees and deposits.
• Ask questions if any fee or term is unclear before you sign.
• Compare fees against Maryland law and any local ordinances to ensure the landlord is not charging prohibited or excessive fees.
• If you believe fees were not properly disclosed or are unlawful, consider seeking guidance from Maryland tenant advocacy groups or legal aid services.

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Summary

In Maryland, landlords must disclose several key fees before you sign your lease, including the security deposit amount and terms, monthly rent and payment details, non-refundable application or administrative fees, pet deposits or fees, and any returned check fees. These disclosures help protect tenants from surprise charges and ensure transparency in the rental process.

Being well-informed about your rights and the required disclosures will empower you to rent with confidence and avoid costly misunderstandings during your tenancy in Maryland. Always insist on a written lease that clearly lists all fees and terms before you commit to renting a property.