Q: Need advice with a landlord taking me to court for last month rent
I signed a 6 month lease (december 2018 - June 31 2019) for a room in a 3 level house and left may 15 due to a hostile/strict environment by the landlord my old landlord is currently taking me to court in august for 800 my security deposit was 800 dollar and I don't understand why hes even pursuing this. Do I have a case can I fight and possibly win? ive kept all my email and text messages from the previous landlord
A:
Very generally speaking in Maryland a tenant is obligated to pay rent for the full lease term, unless there is an agreement or order to the contrary. (the owner/landlord has a duty to try and rent the place out to reduce the damages) If conditions are hazardous to life or health a tenant may petition the court for rent escrow (and pay the rent into escrow instead of to the landlord).
The above is not legal advice and if you are facing a court action you may wish to speak with a landlord/tenant attorney. (My particular law firm is not currently handling any of these types of cases but you are encouraged to reach out to other firms practicing in this area).
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