Do this today
- Write the date, time, who entered, and whether you were told in advance.
- Keep texts, emails, or posted notes about entry.
- If you felt unsafe, that is a safety issue as well as a tenancy issue — 911 if someone is in danger.
- Do not change locks without confirming Maryland rules and the lease.
What usually depends on the reason?
Emergencies, agreed-upon repairs, and showings to buyers or new tenants are often treated differently in Maryland Real Property landlord and tenant title. A national “24 hours” line is a rumor, not a rule we will print. The hour-count, if Maryland has one, is in the chapter.
What if it keeps happening?
Repeated unannounced entry is worth a dated log. Whether Maryland treats that as a breach, a privacy violation, or something a court can stop is a legal-aid question. The log is what you take them.
Does Maryland add rules on top of the federal Fair Housing Act?
Yes — Maryland and some counties add protected classes and local rental-licensing rules. Baltimore City has its own stack. Confirm with the City or County housing office, not with a DC DHCD rumor.
The Maryland chapter
Maryland Real Property landlord and tenant title (Md. Code, Real Prop. §§ 8-101 to 8-604) is the starting point. We name it. We do not paraphrase a day-count or a dollar cap out of it.
Maryland state law is the floor. Cities may add rent boards, just-cause rules, or extra protected classes. Confirm locally.
Official sources
Common questions
Can my landlord in Maryland enter without notice?
Sometimes, for emergencies. For other reasons, Maryland Real Property landlord and tenant title usually requires notice of some kind. We do not print an hour-count. Write down what happened and confirm the chapter.
Can I refuse entry in Maryland?
It depends on the reason, the notice, and the lease. Refusing a lawful entry can become a lease issue. Ask legal aid before you change locks or bar a posted repair visit.
Does Maryland add rules on top of the federal Fair Housing Act?
Yes — Maryland and some counties add protected classes and local rental-licensing rules. Baltimore City has its own stack. Confirm with the City or County housing office, not with a DC DHCD rumor.
The national landlord entry guide has the full sequence. Open the landlord entry guide
People also ask
Last reviewed 8 September 2026. Legal information, not legal advice. Not a law firm. hello@renterprotection.org