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States/Maryland/Surety Bond
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Maryland renter guide

Maryland Security Deposit Surety Bond Rules

Maryland permits a tenant to purchase a surety bond instead of paying all or part of a security deposit, but a landlord may not require the tenant to buy one. The bond is not the tenant’s insurance and can still create reimbursement exposure.

Last reviewed: August 30, 20261 official source cited
Landlord can require bond?No

§ 8-203 says the landlord may not require the tenant to purchase a surety bond.

Bond amountUp to 2 months’ rent

Statutory ceiling for a bond; combined bond + cash deposit also has an aggregate cap.

Important disclosure point

The premium is nonrefundable, and the surety may seek reimbursement from the tenant for valid amounts it pays to the landlord. A disputed bond claim has its own notice and dispute mechanics in § 8-203.

Educational statewide guide. Local law, housing type, lease language and the facts can change the result. This page does not provide legal advice.

Official sources

Maryland General AssemblyMaryland Real Property § 8-203 — Security deposits ↗

Primary current statute for deposit limits, escrow, interest, deductions, 45-day return/accounting and supporting documentation.

Related Maryland guides

Security Deposit →One-Month Limit →45-Day Rule →Move-Out Inspection →