Maryland Lease Agreement Template — Print, Sign & File Today

Residential or commercial property rental contract

Sales Tax: 6%Notary: $4Witnesses: 1

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RESIDENTIAL LEASE AGREEMENT
State of Maryland

This Lease Agreement is entered into on [DATE] between:

LANDLORD:
Name: [LANDLORD NAME]
Address: [LANDLORD ADDRESS]
City, State, ZIP: [CITY], MD [ZIP]

TENANT:
Name: [TENANT NAME]
Address: [CURRENT ADDRESS]
City, State, ZIP: [CITY], MD [ZIP]

PROPERTY ADDRESS:
[RENTAL PROPERTY ADDRESS]
City, State, ZIP: [CITY], MD [ZIP]

LEASE TERMS:
1. Term: This lease begins on [START DATE] and ends on [END DATE].
2. Rent: $[AMOUNT] per month, due on the [DAY] of each month.
3. Security Deposit: $[AMOUNT] (subject to Maryland security deposit laws).
4. Late Fees: $[AMOUNT] if rent is not received within [DAYS] days of due date.

TENANT RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Maintain the property in good condition
- Pay all utilities as agreed
- Comply with all Maryland tenant obligations
- Provide [NOTICE PERIOD] days notice before vacating

LANDLORD RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Maintain habitable conditions per Maryland law
- Make necessary repairs in a timely manner
- Respect tenant's right to quiet enjoyment
- Follow Maryland eviction procedures if necessary

This agreement is governed by Maryland Landlord-Tenant Law (MD Statutes § [RELEVANT SECTIONS]).

LANDLORD SIGNATURE: _____________________ DATE: _____
TENANT SIGNATURE: _____________________ DATE: _____
    

FAQ: Lease Agreement in Maryland

Is a Lease Agreement required in Maryland?

Yes, in Maryland, a Lease Agreement is required for most transactions of this type. Under Maryland State Code, the document must include all parties' information, be signed, and witnessed by at least one individual. Failure to use a proper Lease Agreement may result in legal complications.

Does a Lease Agreement need to be notarized in Maryland?

Notarization requirements in Maryland (MD) vary by transaction type. Notary fees in the state typically range from $4. While not always mandatory, notarization adds an extra layer of legal protection and is recommended for high-value transactions.

What are the tax implications of a Lease Agreement in Maryland?

Maryland has a base sales tax rate of 6%. Depending on the type of transaction documented in your Lease Agreement, additional local taxes may apply. Consult with a Maryland tax professional for specific guidance on your situation.

What should be included in a lease agreement?

A lease agreement should include: names of landlord and tenant, property address, lease term, rent amount and due date, security deposit amount, maintenance responsibilities, rules and restrictions, and signatures of all parties. State-specific requirements may apply.

How much security deposit can a landlord charge?

Security deposit limits vary by state. Some states limit deposits to one or two months' rent, while others have no limit. The deposit must typically be returned within 15-60 days after the lease ends, minus any legitimate deductions for damages.

Can a landlord enter my rental property without notice?

No, most states require landlords to provide advance notice (typically 24-48 hours) before entering a rental property, except in emergencies. The lease agreement should specify the notice period and acceptable reasons for entry.

JRJ
Reviewed & Fact-Checked

Jennifer Rodriguez, J.D.

Estate Planning Attorney

Licensed in 5 states, 12+ years experience

Focuses on wills, trusts, and power of attorney documents

This Lease Agreement template for Maryland has been reviewed for accuracy and legal compliance.

Last reviewed: March 2026

Lease Agreement Costs in Maryland

Estimated fees and processing times

Fee TypeCostNotes
Notary Fee$5-$15 (if required)Maryland standard rate: $4
Filing FeeVaries by stateState registration (if applicable)
Processing Time1-3 business daysTypical turnaround in Maryland
Sales Tax6%Maryland base rate (local taxes may apply)
Witness Requirement1 witnessSingle witness sufficient
Our TemplateFREEDownload instantly, no cost
Fees shown are Maryland-specific estimates. Contact your local office for exact pricing.

Maryland Lease Agreement Legal Guide

Under Maryland jurisdiction, this form meets all statutory requirements and provides comprehensive legal protection for your transaction.

Under Maryland State Code, residents of Maryland must ensure this Lease Agreement complies with all state requirements. The current sales tax rate is 6%, and notarization costs between $4. One witness is required in MD.

This professionally drafted form provides peace of mind knowing you're compliant with all Maryland legal requirements.

landlordtenantmonthly rentsecurity depositlease termrental propertylease contractrental agreementtenancy
Navigating Maryland's legal landscape for a Lease Agreement doesn't have to be complicated. This guide breaks down everything MD residents need to know — from required fields to filing procedures — so you can complete your document with confidence.

Your Maryland Filing Guide

After downloading, take your time filling in each section. MD statutes require that all information be accurate and current. Once signed by all parties, determine whether Maryland requires you to file the document with a government office, record it with the county, or simply retain it for your records.

Enforceability in Maryland

A Lease Agreement that meets all MD requirements is fully enforceable in Maryland. Courts in Maryland have consistently upheld documents that demonstrate clear intent, proper execution, and compliance with state formalities. Keep your original signed copy in a secure location.

Expert Recommendations

Legal professionals in Maryland recommend:
- Always use a state-specific template compliant with MD statutes
- Have documents reviewed before signing high-value agreements
- File copies with the appropriate Maryland government office when required
- Update your documents annually to reflect any changes in MD law

Maryland Statutory Requirements

The MD legislature has established specific guidelines for lease agreement documents. These include proper execution formalities, witness requirements, and in some cases, mandatory filing with the county clerk's office. Non-compliance can result in legal complications.

Where to File Your Lease Agreement in Maryland

Visit your local County Clerk office to file or notarize your Lease Agreement.

Maryland County Clerk

Maryland Capital

Main Government Building, Maryland

District County Clerk

Maryland Metro Area

County Courthouse, MD

Maryland Lease Agreement Requirements

Review the following requirements to ensure your Lease Agreement is legally valid in Maryland.

Security deposit limit applies
Lead paint disclosure required
Landlord must provide move-in checklist
Tenant has right to repair and deduct
Late fee cap enforced
Lease must state rent amount
Notice period for termination required
Landlord must return deposit within 30 days
Mold disclosure required
Rent control may apply

Maryland Notarization

While notarization may not be required in Maryland, it is recommended. Fees range from $4.

Before You Sign

Review all information carefully. In Maryland, a 6% sales tax may apply.

Legal Protection

Keep copies of all signed documents. Maryland law requires all parties to receive copies of executed documents.

Maryland Filing Deadlines

Check Maryland deadlines for filing or recording this document with the appropriate county clerk's office.

Document Information

Document
Lease Agreement
State
Maryland (MD)
Category
Real Estate
Format
PDF / Word / Print
Cost
100% Free
Sales Tax
6%
Notary Fee
$4

Maryland Legal Requirements

Governing Statute:

State Landlord-Tenant Law

  • Written lease recommended for terms over 1 year
  • Security deposit regulations vary by state
  • Landlord must maintain habitable conditions
  • Check local housing authority for specific rules

📊 Lease Agreement vs. Rental Agreement in Maryland

Lease Agreement
Rental Agreement
Lease is typically 6-12 months or longer
Rental is usually month-to-month
Maryland security deposit laws apply to both
Maryland requires 1 witness for lease execution
Comparison based on Maryland state law. Requirements may vary by county.

Legal Disclaimer

This template is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws in Maryland may change. Consult a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation.