Maryland Rent Late Fee Calculator
Calculate rent late fees and verify compliance with Maryland state regulations. Free instant calculator with legal compliance verification.
Maryland law provides a tenant-protective framework regarding late fees on rent. Landlords are allowed to charge a late fee of up to 5% of the rent after a 15-day grace period. This regulation ensures that tenants are not overburdened with excessive fees while still allowing landlords to recoup costs associated with late payments.(Maryland Code §8-208)
Related Statutes
In Maryland, late fees are capped at 5% of the monthly rent, and they can only be applied after a 15-day grace period. This ensures that tenants have adequate time to make their rental payments without incurring additional financial penalties.
Key Factors:
- Maximum permissible late fee is 5% of the rent
- 15-day grace period before late fees can be applied
- Late fees must be clearly outlined in the lease agreement
Baltimore
Baltimore follows state regulations for late fees, with no additional municipal restrictions.
Learn moreRockville
Rockville adheres to state laws regarding late fees and does not impose stricter local regulations.
Learn moreReduction of Security Deposit Limits
Effective October 1, 2024, the maximum security deposit a landlord can charge will be reduced to one month's rent, with an exception allowing up to two months if the tenant qualifies for utility assistance and agrees in writing.
Virginia
No statutory cap, but fees must be reasonable.
Pennsylvania
No specific cap, but fees must be reasonable and stated in the lease.
Delaware
Late fees cannot exceed 5% of the monthly rent.
Landlord Best Practices:
- •Clearly outline late fee policies in the lease agreement.
- •Provide tenants with reminders before the end of the grace period.
- •Document all communications regarding late payments and fees.
Tenant Best Practices:
- •Review lease agreements carefully to understand late fee policies.
- •Communicate proactively with landlords if facing payment difficulties.
- •Keep records of all rent payments and communications with landlords.
Frequently Asked Questions - Maryland
15-day grace period. Maximum 5% of rent or $5, whichever is greater. Late fees governed by §8-208. Security deposits governed by §8-203 (limit reduced to 1 month effective October 1, 2024; 2 months allowed if tenant qualifies for utility assistance and agrees in writing).
View Official State Law →Updated October 2025