Landlord Licensing Requirements in Maryland

If you are landlord, or thinking of becoming one, be sure to determine whether you need a landlord license.  There is no statewide landlord licensure requirement in Maryland, and not all counties and municipalities require a landlord to obtain a license.  Howard, Anne Arundel, Montgomery, Prince George’s, Baltimore City, and Baltimore Counties require landlord licensure.  Some local municipalities, such as Bowie, Hyattsville, and Greenbelt, have specific licensure applications and processes.

 

Maryland law prohibits a landlord that does not possess an active and valid license from collecting rent from a tenant or evicting a tenant.  In Howard County, prior to a entering into a residential lease with a tenant, a landlord must obtain and complete a license application issued by the Howard County Department of Inspections, Licenses, and Permits (RentalApplication_08.29.2023_Fillable_10.20.2023.pdf).  Currently, Howard County only accepts landlord license applications that are mailed or delivered in person.  The application fee in Howard County for a single unit dwelling is $93.50.

 

Following the submission of your license application, Howard County will send out an inspector to examine and assess your home to ensure that your home is compliant with the applicable County ordinance requirements (link to general inspection requirements: H02-NewRentalHousingChecklist Revised 12.21.22.pdf). Your landlord license will only be valid for two (2) years, and must be renewed.

 

If you are currently a landlord or you are thinking of becoming one, and have questions about the licensure process, an attorney may help you better understand your options and rights.  If you have questions, please contact one of our attorneys at Lewicky, O’Connor, Hunt & Meiser, LLC, (410) 489-1996.