Unincorporated Montgomery County · Security deposit
How big can the deposit be in Unincorporated Montgomery County?
Max 1 month's rent.
A deposit can be 2 months only for some renters getting utility help.
Why, and the exact law From Md. Code, Real Prop. § 8-203, read Oct 6, 2026. Show the law
“a landlord may not impose a security deposit in excess of the equivalent of 1 month’s rent per dwelling unit, regardless of the number of tenants …”
Md. Code, Real Prop. § 8-203 · mgaleg.maryland.gov Who can help Get free legal help They can help you ask for it, or go to small claims court. Maryland Legal Aid Every rule here, word for word (2) State law applies here too. Where both cover a rental, the stricter city rule usually wins; each rule below says so.
Maryland law
Maryland security deposit cap, handling, interest and return rules
How big can the deposit be?
Max 1 month's rent.
A deposit can be 2 months only for some renters getting utility help.
Who it covers
Covers: Applies to landlords and prospective landlords of leased dwelling units; no waiver permitted in any lease.
The law, word for word
“a landlord may not impose a security deposit in excess of the equivalent of 1 month’s rent per dwelling unit, regardless of the number of tenants …”
Md. Code, Real Prop. § 8-203 · mgaleg.maryland.gov · Retrieved Oct 6, 2026
Security deposits are governed by state law (Md. Code, Real Prop. § 8-203). The documents show no separate county security-deposit ordinance for unincorporated Montgomery County.
The law, word for word
“a landlord may not impose a security deposit in excess of the equivalent of 1 month’s rent per dwelling unit, regardless of the number of tenants …”
Md. Code, Real Prop. § 8-203 · mgaleg.maryland.gov
Quote checked word for word
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Information about the law, not legal advice.