Free DC/MD Move-Out Compliance Gap Check
Apexion · delivered 2026-11-04
Ensure your property management team stays on top of security-deposit deadlines in Washington, DC, and Maryland. This one-page comparison guide helps you identify potential compliance gaps and avoid costly fines.
Understanding Security-Deposit Deadlines in DC and MD
Familiarize yourself with the key differences in security-deposit laws between Washington, DC, and Maryland to ensure you're meeting all requirements.
DC Security-Deposit Deadlines
* Return security deposits within 30 days of lease termination (DC Code § 42-3405.01) * Allow tenants to inspect the unit 3-5 days before move-out (DC Code § 42-3405.02)
MD Security-Deposit Deadlines
* Return security deposits within 45 days of lease termination (MD Code, Real Property § 8-211) * Provide tenants with a written list of damages and charges within 30 days of move-out (MD Code, Real Property § 8-211)
Sample Security-Deposit Return Notice (DC)
[PROPERTY OWNER'S NAME]
[ADDRESS]
[EMAIL]
[PHONE NUMBER]
[DATE]
[TENANT'S NAME]
[ADDRESS]
Dear [TENANT'S NAME],
Re: Return of Security Deposit
This letter serves as notice that we have completed the inspection of the unit and have returned your security deposit in the amount of $[AMOUNT].
Please note that we have deducted $[AMOUNT] for damages to the unit, including [LIST DAMAGES]. The balance of $[AMOUNT] has been returned to you via [PAYMENT METHOD].
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us at [PHONE NUMBER] or [EMAIL].
Sincerely,
[PROPERTY OWNER'S NAME]
Sample Security-Deposit Return Notice (MD)
[PROPERTY OWNER'S NAME]
[ADDRESS]
[EMAIL]
[PHONE NUMBER]
[DATE]
[TENANT'S NAME]
[ADDRESS]
Dear [TENANT'S NAME],
Re: Return of Security Deposit
This letter serves as notice that we have completed the inspection of the unit and have returned your security deposit in the amount of $[AMOUNT].
Please note that we have deducted $[AMOUNT] for damages to the unit, including [LIST DAMAGES]. The balance of $[AMOUNT] has been returned to you via [PAYMENT METHOD].
We have also provided a written list of damages and charges to your attention, as required by law.
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us at [PHONE NUMBER] or [EMAIL].
Sincerely,
[PROPERTY OWNER'S NAME]
Stay Compliant with Our DC/MD Move-Out Checklist
Use this checklist to ensure your team is meeting all security-deposit requirements in Washington, DC, and Maryland.
1. Review lease agreements to ensure compliance with DC and MD security-deposit laws. 2. Complete inspections of units within 3-5 days of move-out (DC) or 30 days of move-out (MD). 3. Return security deposits within 30 days (DC) or 45 days (MD) of lease termination. 4. Provide tenants with a written list of damages and charges (MD only). 5. Document all communication with tenants regarding security deposits.
