Are you a landlord in Baltimore City? Before you think about filing a failure-to-pay-rent case, there’s one critical question you need to answer: Is your property fully compliant with Baltimore City’s housing regulations? If not, you’re in for some surprises.
In this guide, we’ll break down the steps you must take to meet local requirements and ensure your rental business stays on track. Let’s get started.
Why Compliance Matters Before Heading to Rent Court
Baltimore’s housing regulations aren’t just about keeping tenants happy; they’re the law. Since January 1, 2019, landlords must register, inspect, and license their rental units to access rent court. Without these prerequisites, your failure-to-pay-rent case will be dismissed outright. Here’s how to get your ducks in a row.
Step 1: Register Your Property with DHCD
Every landlord in Baltimore must register their rental property with the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). Registration is mandatory for single-family homes and multi-unit buildings. What you need:
A completed registration form: Available online for easy submission.
Registration fee: The cost varies depending on the property type.
Timeline: New properties must be registered within 10 days of transfer, and all registrations must be renewed annually by January 1.
Example: Let’s say you just bought a duplex in Canton. Before renting out the units, go to the DHCD website, complete the online form, and pay the fee. Once registered, you’re one step closer to compliance.
Step 2: Obtain Lead Certification
If your rental property was built before 1978, Maryland’s lead paint laws apply to you. Lead certification is non-negotiable and essential for protecting tenants—especially children—from harmful exposure. What you need:
Lead inspection: Hire an MDE-accredited inspector to assess the property.
Certification type: Depending on the results, you’ll receive either a “Lead-Free” or “Limited Lead-Free” certificate.
Registration: Submit your lead certification to the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE).
Example: Say your rental unit in Hampden fails the initial inspection due to chipped paint. You’ll need to remediate the issue before retesting. Once you’ve passed, the certification number must be included in any rent court filing.
Step 3: Pass a Rental Inspection
All rental properties in Baltimore must pass a comprehensive inspection by a state-licensed, Baltimore City-registered home inspector. This isn’t a quick “lock the doors and check the lights” process. The inspection covers essential health and safety standards. What inspectors check:
Working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
Functional plumbing and electrical systems.
Properly maintained interiors and exteriors.
Safe utilities and lead paint compliance.
The Paperwork:
Your inspector will complete the official Baltimore City Rental License Inspection Form. This document confirms that your property is ready for tenants and licensing.
Example: If your property in Federal Hill has missing smoke detectors, don’t expect to pass inspection. Install them before scheduling your appointment. Being proactive saves time and avoids delays.
Step 4: Secure a Rental License
After registering, certifying for lead, and passing inspection, you’re ready to obtain your rental license. This license is your golden ticket to legally operating a rental business and filing rent cases in court. How to get your license:
Submit proof of registration, lead certification, and inspection clearance online.
Pay the licensing fee.
Receive an active license number that is initially valid for two years.
Renewal Options:
Subsequent licenses are issued based on your maintenance record. With a clean record, you could qualify for a three-year license. If issues arise, you might be limited to a one-year renewal.
Example: Let’s say your property in Charles Village has had no violations over two years. You’re eligible for a three-year license, reducing your renewal hassle.
Filing a Failure-to-Pay-Rent Case
You can file a failure-to-pay-rent case once your rental property is fully compliant. When completing the paperwork, be prepared to include:
Your active rental license number.
The lead certification number (if applicable).
Without these, your case will be dismissed. Baltimore’s rent court prioritizes tenant protection, so compliance isn’t optional.
How Property Managers Make Life Easier
Feeling overwhelmed? You’re not alone. Baltimore’s housing regulations can feel like a maze, but here’s the good news: Baltimore property managers are experts at navigating this process. Here is what we can do:
Handle registration, inspections, and licensing on your behalf.
Ensure your property meets lead and safety requirements.
File rent court cases correctly and efficiently.
Example: A property manager overseeing rentals in Patterson Park ensures that all units are compliant, inspected, and ready for new tenants. They’ll also handle tenant disputes and rent collection, saving you time and stress.
Why Compliance Is Worth It
Following Baltimore’s housing regulations means following legal requirements, but also protecting your investment, ensuring tenant safety, and avoiding costly fines or legal disputes. With the proper preparation or the help of a skilled property manager like the experts at Pioneer Enterprises, you can meet the city’s standards and focus on growing your rental business.
Now that you know the steps, it’s time to act. Whether you’re managing one property or ten, compliance is key to staying ahead in Baltimore’s rental market.
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