Housing Laws

If you (the tenant) or a legal occupant in your home are a victim of abuse and you want to end your lease early, you must give written notice to the landlord that states your intention to leave (vacate) the residence. The notice must also include a copy of one of the following documents as proof of the abuse:¹

1. a final protective order;
2. a final peace order; or
3. a copy of a report by a qualified third party that:
   • redacts the name and description of the abuser; and
   • was signed by a qualified third party within the previous 60 days.²

A “qualified third party” is defined as:

• a doctor who is legally authorized to practice medicine;
• a psychologist who is legally authorized to practice psychology;
• a social worker or caseworker at a health or social services agency or provider; or
• an advocate from a domestic violence or sexual assault prevention or assistance program.³

For more information on what has to be included in the qualified third party’s report, see What does a report from a qualified third party need to include?

¹ MD Code, Real Prop. § 8-5A-02(b)
² MD Code, Real Prop. § 8-5A-03(b)
³ MD Code, Real Prop. § 8-5A-01(g)