§8–203.
(a) (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2) “Landlord” means a landlord or a prospective landlord.
(3) “Security deposit” means any payment of money, including payment of the last month’s rent in advance of the time it is due, given to a landlord by a tenant in order to protect the landlord against nonpayment of rent, damage due to breach of lease, or damage to the leased premises, common areas, major appliances, and furnishings.
(4) “Tenant” means a tenant or a prospective tenant.
(b) (1) Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, a landlord may not impose a security deposit in excess of the equivalent of 1 month’s rent per dwelling unit, regardless of the number of tenants.
(2) A landlord may impose a security deposit in an amount equivalent to up to 2 months’ rent if:
(i) The tenant is eligible and has qualified for utility assistance through the Department of Human Services;
(ii) The lease agreement requires that the tenant make payments for utility services directly to the landlord; and
(iii) The tenant and landlord agree in writing to the amount of the security deposit.
(3) If a landlord violates paragraph (1) of this subsection, the tenant may recover up to three times the extra amount charged, plus reasonable attorney’s fees.
(4) An action under this section may be brought at any time during the tenancy or within 2 years after its termination.
(c) (1) The landlord shall give the tenant a receipt for the security deposit as specified in § 8–203.1 of this subtitle.
(2) The receipt shall be included in a written lease.