Frequently asked questions
Common questions about Baltimore rental licensing and our services.
Do I need a Baltimore City rental license to rent out my property?
If it's a covered rental dwelling, Baltimore City requires a rental dwelling license, and licensing is tied to property registration and inspection prerequisites. We help owners confirm whether their property is covered and handle the licensing steps if it is.
How much does it cost?
Baltimore City's license fee is $0, but annual property registration fees apply (commonly $30/unit for 1-2 unit properties; $35/unit for multifamily), plus inspection and any state lead-related costs where applicable. Our service fee is a flat $75 for the first rental at a property and $25 for each additional rental at the same address, separate from city and inspection fees.
How often do I renew?
Property registration is annual (Jan-Dec). Rental dwelling licenses start as 2-year licenses, then may renew for 1-3 years based on compliance/violation abatement timing. We handle all renewals and track deadlines.
What happens if I don't comply?
City code provides misdemeanor penalties and fines up to $500/day for violations in the registration subtitle, and failure to be properly licensed can create serious problems—especially when trying to collect rent or pursue nonpayment actions. Our goal is to help owners become compliant before issues arise.
What does the inspection look for?
The DHCD inspection checklist focuses on basic life-safety and habitability items—utilities active, no exposed wiring, smoke/CO alarms, plumbing function, doors/windows lock, weather-tightness, gutters/drainage, operable heat, and other observable health/safety threats.
How long is an inspection valid?
It must be uploaded within 30 days (1-2 family) or 90 days (multifamily) of completion. Section 8 inspection must be no older than one year.
Do I need to register with Maryland's Lead Rental Registry?
For pre-1978 rental properties, Maryland requires registration/annual renewal in the Lead Rental Registry under an MDE tracking number. This is commonly checked at licensing/renewal time, and we help coordinate this requirement when applicable.
Can you help if I already started my Baltimore City rental license application?
Yes. We can often step in after an application has been started to help organize documents, respond to city questions, coordinate follow-up inspections, and handle any corrections needed to finish the process.
What about the 2026 rule changes?
Baltimore Ord. 24-403 (Strengthening Renters' Safety Act) is effective Jan 1, 2026 and affects multiple rental licensing sections. We stay current with rule changes and update our workflows accordingly to ensure compliance.
Still have questions?
Contact us or start your order to begin the rental licensing process.