Strengthening Renters' Safety Act
The Baltimore City Council enacted the Strengthening Renters' Safety Act which takes effect on January 1, 2026. The Act is intended to identify owners of multi-family properties who have repeated and recurring violation notices and/or citations and establishes criteria for priority inspections of such sites. Based on priority inspection findings, priority dwellings may be subject to denial, suspension, or revocation of a rental license.
See Information/Frequently Asked Questions about the Act
View Calendar Year 2025 Annual Report
Maryland Renters' Rights and Stabilization Act of 2024
During the 2024 Maryland General Assembly session, the Maryland Renters’ Rights and Stabilization Act of 2024 was passed, and subsequently signed into law by Governor Wes Moore.
See Frequently Asked Questions about the State Law
The law became effective on October 1, 2024, and preempts The Councilmember Mary Pat Clarke Tenant Opportunity to Purchase Act law, which was signed by Mayor Scott in October 2023. To learn more about the State law, visit:
dhcd.maryland.gov/landlord-tenant-rights.
Additional Support for Renters
Baltimore City DHCD has put together a guidebook that has important information Renter’s need to know about renting in Baltimore City and code requirements. The guidebook contains information about new home owner grant opportunities, legal support for landlord disputes, answers to frequently asked questions renters may have and more.
See the Renter's Resource Guidebook
Eviction Prevention
Assistance with rent may be available to eligible applicants for eviction prevention through the program now administered by the Community Action Partnership (CAP) office under the Mayor's Office of Children and Family Success. You may also call 410-396-5555 for more information.
Legal Resources
Free legal resources are available for renters facing an eviction action.
Organizations that Provide Free Legal Advice