Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Maryland
Landlords responsibilities for painting
Most of my security deposit is being held for painting. The apartment was left in good condition with minimal markings on the wall. I am told that in some states, re-painting is required by the landlord and not subject to security deposit. Is this the case in Maryland. If a cleaning fee is paid at the begining of the rental period, is an adding an additional fee for painting legal?
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Landlords responsibilities for painting
Usually your lease will spell out what the landlord can do with your
security deposit. If it does not, the landlord has to provide you with an itemized
list of costs for repairs within 45 days of the termination of the lease. If he does not,
you should see an attorney right away. However, if you abandoned or were evicted, there are different
rules. Assuming that you were not evicted and your lease did not provide the relevant terms as to
what the landlord can do, reasonable wear and tear is expected and acceptable. I would contact an attorney
immediately, you may be eligible for damages.