Maryland Security Deposit Demand Letter
A free Maryland security deposit demand letter that follows Maryland law. Fill in the boxes, check the rules below, then print or copy it. Keep a copy and proof of how you sent it.
What Maryland law says
| Deposit return deadline | Within 45 days after the tenancy ends, the landlord must return the deposit plus accrued interest, less damages rightfully withheld. |
|---|---|
| Itemized deductions | Within 45 days after the tenancy ends, the landlord must send a written list of damages claimed plus an itemized statement of the cost of each (with supporting documentation; cost estimates allowed) by first-class mail to the tenant's last known address. If the landlord does not, it forfeits the right to withhold any of the deposit for damages. Where estimates were used, the landlord must notify the tenant when repairs are done and refund any excess within 30 days. |
| Penalty for withholding | If the landlord fails to return the deposit and interest within 45 days without a reasonable basis, the tenant may sue for up to 3 times the withheld amount plus reasonable attorney's fees. |
| Wear and tear / move-out charges | Deposits may be withheld for unpaid rent, for damage from breach of the lease, or for damage by the tenant, family, agents, employees, guests or invitees beyond 'ordinary wear and tear' to the premises, common areas, major appliances and landlord-owned furnishings. The statute doesn't define ordinary wear and tear or specifically address cleaning, painting or carpet. Deductions must be itemized with actual costs. Source: Md. Code, Real Prop. § 8-203 |
Fill in your letter
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To: [landlord or manager name], [landlord address]
From: [your name], former tenant at [rental address]
I moved out and returned the keys on [move-out date]. I paid a security deposit of $[deposit amount]. I gave you my forwarding address in writing on [date you gave your address].
Under Md. Code, Real Prop. § 8-203(e)(1), a landlord must return the deposit, or send an itemized list of lawful deductions, by the deadline set in that law. I have not received [the deposit / an itemized list].
Please send $[amount owed] to [forwarding address] within [number] days of this letter.
If I do not receive it, I plan to file a claim in small claims court and ask for any additional amount allowed by Md. Code, Real Prop. § 8-203(e)(4).
Date: [today's date]
Tenant: [your name]
Signature: ____________________
How to send it: use a method you can prove — certified mail with return receipt, or email/text if your lease allows notices that way. Write down the date.
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General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.