New Maryland Renter Protections Taking Effect Oct 1, 2026
Four Maryland housing laws take effect October 1, 2026, confirmed on the Maryland General Assembly's own site: the Fair Chance Housing Act (SB 937), new rules around housing subsidy applicants (SB 335/HB 315), a tenant option for rental payment reporting to credit bureaus (SB 335/HB 315), and a new air conditioning requirement for larger rental buildings (SB 12, signed as Chapter 664).
Last verified Sep 24, 2026 · Not affiliated with Maryland General Assembly
The quick version
- When
- Effective October 1, 2026
- Where
- Maryland (statewide)
- Cost
- Free — informational
- Who it's for
- Any Maryland renter, rental applicant, or housing provider.
The fine print worth knowing before you go
- 1
Criminal history screening rules are changing (SB 937)
The Fair Chance Housing Act sets new rules for when and how housing providers can consider criminal history in a rental application.
- 2
New protections for subsidy applicants (SB 335/HB 315)
New rules govern what can be considered when you apply for housing using an income-based subsidy (like a voucher).
- 3
You can opt in to rental payment reporting (SB 335/HB 315)
Tenants can choose to have their on-time rent payments reported to consumer reporting agencies — a way to build credit history from rent you're already paying.
- 4
AC is now required in some buildings (SB 12)
Certain apartment buildings with 10+ units must provide cooling that keeps units at 80°F or below during summer months.
- 5
This is general information, not a benefit you sign up for
These are law changes, not a program with an application — they simply change what you can expect or ask for as a renter or provider starting Oct 1, 2026.
Real, confirmed law changes — worth knowing your rights (or your obligations, if you're a housing provider) before October 1, 2026.
The Fine Print is not affiliated with Maryland General Assembly. This page is research to help you prepare, not legal or financial advice. Details can change, so confirm everything with the official source before you rely on it.
Sources
Last verified Sep 24, 2026. See something out of date? Tell us.