Annapolis, MD asked in Real Estate Law for Maryland

Q: What are my rights to appointing a walkthrough at the end of the lease? Maryland state

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1 Lawyer Answer
Richard Sternberg
Richard Sternberg
Answered
  • Potomac, MD
  • Licensed in Maryland

A: I'm not sure what you mean by "appointing…". I'm going to assume that you mean "make an appointment for…". You aren't required to make an appointment for a walk-through unless your lease gives you that duty. A lawyer's review of the lease might be worthwhile. But, either way, you want to attend the walk-through to be certain that the landlord isn't going to charge damages against your security deposit for things you didn't damage. If you aren't there, the landlord could -- honestly or dishonestly -- list damages and then send you an accounting for them. You can deny the damages in court, but you will no longer have access to the rental unit. If you are there and there is a dispute, you can take pictures, make notes, and know what the landlord is thinking. Your presence is also subtly telling the landlord that you are not tolerant of inspection errors and misstatements. If you cannot be there, you should take pictures of everything so you can catch the landlord if he lies.

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