Baltimore Rental License Cost Calculator
Calculate Your Rental License Costs
Determine the annual fee for Baltimore City rental licenses and potential penalties for non-compliance.
Cost Summary
Key Takeaways
- You need a rental license for any rental property in Baltimore City, including owner-occupied homes.
- Apply through the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) website for $50 per unit per year.
- Inspections check smoke detectors, plumbing, electrical systems, and structural safety.
- Fines for operating without a license can reach $1,000 per day.
- Common mistakes include forgetting to renew the license or delaying fixes after an inspection failure.
Is a Rental License Required in Baltimore City?
Yes, you absolutely need a rental license to rent out your house in Baltimore City. This requirement applies to all residential rental properties, regardless of whether you live in the home or rent out rooms. Whether it's a single-family house, a duplex, or a multi-unit building, Baltimore City law mandates registration. The rule comes from Baltimore City Code Title 13Chapter 13-13 of the Baltimore City Code, which covers the Rental Property Registration Program.
The Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) enforces this law. They require every landlord to register their rental properties. Even if you own the home and rent out a single room, you must get a license. There are no exceptions for owner-occupied properties. This ensures all rental units meet safety standards and that the city can track rental activity.
How to Apply for Your Rental License
Applying for a rental license in Baltimore City is straightforward. Start by visiting the DHCD websitethe official site for Baltimore's housing department. You'll find the Rental Property Registration portal under the "Landlord Resources" section. Here's what to do:
- Create an account or log in if you already have one.
- Enter your property address and unit details. For single-family homes, you'll list the entire property as one unit.
- Provide your contact information and proof of ownership (like a deed or tax bill).
- Pay the $50 fee per unit per year. Payment is accepted online via credit card or e-check.
- Submit the application. You'll receive a confirmation email with next steps.
After submitting, DHCD will schedule a property inspection. This usually happens within 10-14 business days. Make sure the property is ready for inspection before they arrive. No need to be present during the inspection-you can leave keys with a neighbor or property manager.
What Happens During the Property Inspection?
Inspections focus on safety and habitability. DHCD inspectors check for common issues that could put tenants at risk. Here's exactly what they look for:
| Item | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Smoke Detectors | One per floor, working and installed correctly |
| Carbon Monoxide Detectors | Required in homes with gas appliances or attached garages |
| Electrical Systems | No exposed wiring, proper grounding, functioning outlets |
| Plumbing | Working hot and cold water, no leaks, proper drainage |
| Structural Integrity | Stable floors, walls, ceilings; no major cracks or hazards |
| Exit Routes | Clear and unobstructed emergency exits |
If your property passes, you'll receive your rental license certificate via email within 5 business days. If it fails, you'll get a detailed report listing issues. You have 30 days to fix them. After corrections, schedule a re-inspection. There's no extra fee for re-inspections in Baltimore City.
Penalties for Operating Without a License
Renting without a license is a serious violation. The city takes this seriously because unlicensed properties often have safety hazards. Here's what happens if you skip the license:
- Fines of up to $1,000 per day until you comply. These add up fast-$1,000 a day for a month is $30,000.
- You can't legally evict tenants. Courts dismiss eviction cases if the property isn't licensed.
- Repeat violations lead to criminal charges. The DHCD can refer cases to Baltimore City's Office of the City Solicitor.
- Insurance claims may be denied. Many landlords' insurance policies require a valid rental license.
Real-world example: In 2025, a Baltimore landlord rented out a duplex without a license. When tenants reported mold issues, the city found the unlicensed status. The landlord faced $15,000 in fines and had to pay $2,500 in tenant relocation costs. This could've been avoided with a simple $100 license fee for the two units.
Common Mistakes Landlords Make
Many landlords unintentionally break the law. Here are the top mistakes we see:
- Forgetting to renew annually. Licenses expire every year. DHCD sends renewal notices, but if you miss them, you're operating illegally.
- Skipping inspections after renting out a room. Even if you live in the house, renting a single room requires registration. I've seen cases where homeowners thought "I'm living here too, so it's okay"-but that's not true.
- Delaying repairs after inspection failures. If an inspector flags a broken window or faulty wiring, fix it immediately. Waiting until the last minute often leads to re-inspection delays.
- Using unlicensed property managers. If you hire a management company, they must also be licensed. Verify their status on the DHCD website before signing contracts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a rental license if I'm renting a room in my own home?
Yes. Baltimore City requires a rental license for all residential rental properties, including owner-occupied homes where you rent out rooms. Even if you live in the house and rent out one room, you must register the property and obtain a license. This applies regardless of how many units you're renting out.
How long does it take to get the rental license?
After submitting your application and paying the fee, inspections are typically scheduled within 10-14 business days. If the property passes inspection, you'll receive your license certificate via email within 5 business days. Total time is usually 2-4 weeks.
What if my property fails the inspection?
You'll receive a detailed report listing violations. You have 30 days to fix all issues. Once repaired, contact DHCD to schedule a free re-inspection. If you don't fix issues within 30 days, fines start accruing immediately. It's better to fix problems quickly than face $1,000 daily penalties.
Can I rent without a license if I'm not the owner?
No. Only the property owner can apply for a rental license. If you're a tenant or property manager renting out someone else's house, you must work with the owner to get the license. The owner is legally responsible for compliance, even if you handle day-to-day management.
What happens if I don't renew my rental license?
Your license expires after one year. If you don't renew, you're operating illegally immediately. You'll face $1,000 per day fines starting from the expiration date. To reinstate, you must reapply, pay the fee, and pass a new inspection. There's no grace period-non-renewal is treated as a violation from day one.