Bill > S984

This bill aims to further regulate tenant fees in rental housing by introducing several key protections for renters. The legislation limits the upfront fees that landlords can charge at the start of a tenancy to first month's rent, last month's rent (or a security deposit), and the cost of a key and lock. It also places restrictions on late payment penalties, capping them at $50 or 5% of the monthly rent, whichever is less, and allowing such penalties only once per late payment. The bill prohibits landlords from charging additional fees for lease renewals, holdover periods, or substituting lease parties, and prevents them from mandating extra charges for amenities, insurance, or payment systems. Landlords must now make any optional fees completely voluntary, with clear opt-out instructions, and cannot force tenants to use electronic payment systems. The legislation also specifies how tenant payments should be applied and voids any rental agreement provisions that classify additional fees as "rent". Furthermore, the bill introduces significant financial penalties for landlords who violate these provisions, allowing tenants to recover three times the amount of any improperly charged fees, plus court costs and attorney's fees. Lastly, the bill restricts when attorneys' fees can be assessed against tenants, requiring a court judgment and reasonable fee determination.

Budget and Finance, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S984