Are you a tenant in Prince George's County, Maryland? If so, you may be curious if there are any rent control laws in place. The answer is yes! In 2002, the county passed the Rent Stabilization Act, which temporarily restricts rent increases. This legislation was co-sponsored by Krystal Oriadha and is intended to protect renters from unfair rent hikes and landlord practices. The Rent Stabilization Act requires landlords to follow a specific procedure to request an exemption from the county's rent stabilization law.
It also prohibits landlords from ending leases to force existing tenants to sign new leases as a way to get around the law. CASA, along with other organizations from the PG County Housing Justice Coalition and its allies, have been advocating for rent stabilization since last year, when tenants in the city of Laurel began to experience extreme rent increases. The CB-7 will limit rent increases to 3% for renters in Prince George's County, while the county works on a permanent solution to the growing housing crisis. Properties located within the city limits of Mount Rainier may be subject to both the Ordinance and County Law, and any conflict will be decided in favor of a more restrictive law. Prince George's County Executive Angela Alsobrooks and County Council members are searching for sustainable solutions for the 40 percent of county residents who are renters.
With the end of federal and state eviction moratoriums related to COVID-19, more than 17,000 Maryland residents are at risk of eviction, and the highest percentages are in Prince George's County. In response, the county council passed legislation last month that limits rent increases in most rental units to 3%. This move is meant to give the county time to find long-term solutions that guarantee affordable housing for Prince George's County residents. According to data from Prince George's County health rankings and roadmaps, nearly 20 percent of Prince George's County residents face serious housing problems. If you're a renter in Prince George's County, it's essential to understand your rights under the Rent Stabilization Act. This legislation is designed to protect tenants from unfair rent increases and landlord practices.
It also ensures that renters have access to affordable, livable and fair housing.
