Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in Maryland

My boyfriend and I have lived in a townhome subletting a room for almost 1 year now. When we first moved in they explained (verbally) that we were only responsible for paying our rent of $500 which included all utilities and cable. We were also told that the landlord pays the water bill in exchange for use of our address so that his children can attend school in Anne Arundel County. Further down the road they kicked out the tenant occupying another bedroom. Because of this they asked if we could help with the BG&E bill because they could no longer afford it with our roomate gone. We agreed. Just a week ago they put a copy of the water bill on the fridge along with our BG&E bill. They never once explained why it was there. Well today when I gave them our rent and BG&E money they asked where the water bill money was. They told me that the landlord refused to pay the water bill this month because it was $87 dollars more than the last bill. When I looked at the bill I saw that it included June-September, which during that time they filled up an above ground pool twice- causing the water bill to increase. When I saw this I told them that I would not give them half because they were the cause of the increase in the bill, not us. After I said this they said I have 30 days to leave. I was told by others that I can claim "squatters rights." My question is what are my rights exactly and as tenants on a lease what are theirs?


Asked on 10/30/09, 4:37 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Lesly Longa Longa Law P.A.

You have an oral lease, which can be terminated upon proper 30 days notice. There is good information as well as links to where you can call for legal assistance at http://www.oag.state.md.us/Consumer/landlords.htm

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Answered on 11/05/09, 9:36 am


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