Bill > H1553

This bill aims to regulate and limit various fees that landlords can charge tenants in rental housing. The legislation would restrict landlords from requiring tenants to pay more than first month's rent, last month's rent (or a security deposit), and the cost of a key and lock at the beginning of a tenancy. The bill also caps late payment penalties at $50 or 5% of monthly rent, whichever is less, and prohibits charging such penalties more than once per late payment. Additionally, landlords would be banned from charging fees for lease renewals, tenant substitutions, holding over after a lease term, or mandatory amenities like internet or insurance. Tenants must be given the option to choose and opt out of any additional services, with clear written descriptions of costs. The bill also prevents landlords from requiring electronic-only rent payments and mandates that tenant payments be applied first to current rent, then to outstanding rent, utilities, and other charges. Landlords who violate these provisions could be required to pay tenants three times the amount of any improper charges, plus court costs and attorney's fees. Notably, the bill also restricts when attorney's fees can be assessed against tenants, allowing such fees only after a court judgment in the landlord's favor and a determination of reasonableness.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1553