A Guide for Preparing to Move-In to New Housing

Before supporting any young person to move into new housing, we always want to make sure that they:

• Have a clear plan that works for your needs
• Are aware of your rights, responsibilities, and resources
• Will not face surprises that could put their housing at risk

The guide below provides a series of topics to discuss with young people to help them have the skills and confidence to succeed as they navigate their housing needs. This may include information about their current housing situation, their income and rent budget, what kind of place they are looking for (or have already found), lease basics and renter responsibilities, and what support they need to move in and stay housed.

Questions to Ask the Landlord Before Signing a Lease

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Questions to Ask Yourself Before Signing a Lease

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Do I have everything I need to move in?

➤ ID, deposit, first month’s rent, proof of income, references

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Housing Rights in Maryland

1. Right to a Habitable Home

• Landlord must provide functioning plumbing, heat, electricity, and compliance with health/safety codes
• Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are required in homes.

2. Security Deposit Rules

• Deposit is max 2 months’ rent (1 month in most cases)
• Landlord must return your deposit within 45 days after move-out, with itemized deductions
• If landlord wrongly withholds deposit, tenant may sue for triple damages

3. Right to Privacy & Notice

• Landlord must give at least 24-hour notice before entering (except emergencies)

4. Right to Fair Treatment & Non‑Retaliation

• no discrimination on race, disability, familial status, etc.

5. Lease & Rent Rights

• Leases for more than 1 year must be in writing.
• For leases signed after April 30, 2021 - Late fees max 5% of rent per month (March rent, April rent, May rent, etc) and only after allowed grace period.
• Rent can only be raised at lease renewal with 90 days’ written notice
• If landlord bills you for utilities and collects payment directly, they must provide copies of bills

6. Eviction & Legal Protections

• You must receive formal notice and due process before eviction—no “lockouts” or utility shut‑offs .
• You have the right to a hearing and legal representation .
• For tenants in buildings being sold, you may have a right of first refusal under state law .

What if My Name Isn't on the Lease?

Understanding Needs vs Wants

Needs vs Wants

Needs

Wants

• A safe and stable place to sleep
• A place with running water, heat, and electricity
• Affordability – rent and utilities within your budget
• Access to work, school, or transportation
• Basic furniture - a bed, somewhere to sit, and a place to eat
• A way to store and prepare food
• Lease or rental agreement that protects your rights

• A TV or game console
• A new couch
• Upgraded Phone or Internet Plan (basic phone and internet would be usually be considered a need)
• Streaming subscriptions
• Recreational Activities (gym equipment, memberships, etc)
• Brand name items
• Pets, Petcare