What the Law Covers: Scope & History
- Registration is required even if your property is vacant, unoccupied, or not generating income.
- The law ensures that all Baltimore rental housing meets minimum safety and maintenance standards.
- The City’s Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) enforces these regulations.
Did You Know? Under Article 13, Subtitle 5 of the Baltimore City Code, operating an unlicensed rental property is prohibited — even if rent is being collected under an existing lease.
Step-by-Step: Baltimore City Rental Property Registration Requirements
- Register the Property Online: Visit the DHCD registration portal and complete the required form, including the owner’s contact information.
- Submit Annual Fees: Registration is valid from January 1 – December 31 and must be renewed yearly.
- Register Within 10 Days of Transfer: New owners must register their property within 10 days of purchase.
- Register Even if Vacant: Baltimore requires registration for all non-owner-occupied dwellings, even if not rented out.
Failing to register can lead to fines and enforcement action — even for temporarily vacant properties.
Inspection & Licensing: How to Obtain Your Baltimore Rental License
To qualify for a license, landlords must:
- Complete the property registration with the current owner’s details.
- Submit a passing third-party inspection report from a licensed Baltimore City inspector.
- Provide a current lead paint certification for all pre-1978 units.
- Pay all outstanding registration and licensing fees.
- Ensure there are no open code violations on record.
What Inspectors Look For
Inspectors check essential life, health, and safety systems, including:
- Smoke & carbon monoxide detectors
- Electrical safety and plumbing integrity
- Sanitary interior/exterior conditions
- Lead safety compliance
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Operating without a valid license can lead to severe penalties, including:
- Fines of up to $1,000 per violation
- Suspension, revocation, or denial of rental license
- Loss of the right to legally collect rent
- Tenant-initiated complaints or lawsuits
Warning: Even a single unlicensed property can trigger City enforcement and public record notices that affect your entire rental portfolio.
Landlord Best Practices & Compliance Tips
- Register early, don’t wait until after a tenant moves in.
- Hire a qualified inspector approved by Baltimore City.
- Keep digital copies of all inspection and lead certifications.
- Track renewal dates and set reminders for annual registration.
- Fix minor issues before inspection to ensure a first-time pass.
Being proactive not only protects you from penalties but also strengthens your reputation as a responsible landlord.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do owner-occupied homes need a rental license?
No. Owner-occupied one- and two-family dwellings are generally exempt.
Can I rent my property while my license is pending?
No. You cannot legally collect rent until your rental license is fully approved.
How long is the inspection report valid?
Typically, 30 days for one- or two-family dwellings, and up to 90 days for multi-family buildings.
How can I verify if my property is licensed?
Use the City’s public search tool to confirm license status by address.
Conclusion: Stay Compliant & Protect Your Investment
Understanding and following Baltimore’s rental registration and licensing requirements ensures that your properties remain safe, compliant, and profitable. Landlords who stay ahead of deadlines and documentation avoid fines and gain trust from tenants and regulators alike.
Need help navigating the process? Ineedtenants.com offers professional assistance with property registration, inspections, lead testing, and full licensing compliance. Let our experts handle the paperwork so you can focus on what matters most: growing your rental business.