Silver Spring, Maryland Landlord-Tenant Attorneys

Skilled Legal Counsel for Lease Disputes and Rental Property Challenges in Silver Spring

The landlord-tenant relationship is governed by lease agreements, state statutes, and local regulations, all of which establish a framework for how residential and commercial rental properties are managed. However, conflicts can still arise over lease interpretation, property conditions, or financial obligations. These disputes can disrupt daily life or business operations and, if left unresolved, may result in litigation, financial loss, or the termination of the lease relationship. At Fox & Moghul, our attorneys assist landlords and tenants with the legal challenges that often surface during a tenancy, providing practical advice and strategic representation.

Whether the issue involves a disagreement over who is responsible for repairs, late rent payments, or an unlawful eviction attempt, we work to resolve disputes promptly and in accordance with Maryland landlord-tenant law.

Disputes Arising from Lease Terms

Leases are intended to clearly define the rights and responsibilities of both parties; however, disputes frequently develop, particularly when lease language is unclear or circumstances change. Our attorneys handle a broad range of disputes related to lease terms, including:

• Maintenance and Repairs: Tenants may claim a landlord has failed to maintain the property in a habitable condition, while landlords may assert that damage caused by the tenant is beyond ordinary wear and tear. Lease provisions and Maryland habitability laws often determine how these issues are resolved.
• Responsibility for Utilities or Taxes: Conflicts may arise over which party is obligated to pay for utilities, property taxes, or other recurring charges. When leases do not specify these obligations clearly, disputes may require legal interpretation.
• Subleasing or Assignment of Lease: A tenant may wish to sublet the property or assign the lease to another party, potentially in violation of the original lease terms. Landlords may contest these arrangements to maintain control over occupancy and property use.
• Lease Renewals and Terminations: Disputes are common at the end of a lease term. Tenants may claim a right to renew, or landlords may attempt to terminate a tenancy based on alleged violations. Issues often arise over proper notice, automatic renewals, and rent adjustments.

Our attorneys help clients understand their rights and responsibilities under the lease and applicable law, and we assist in negotiating solutions or pursuing formal remedies when disputes escalate.

Legal Support for Tenants

Tenants have the right to occupy a safe, habitable space and to be treated fairly under the lease agreement. When disputes arise, legal representation can be critical to protecting these rights and ensuring a balanced resolution. At Fox & Moghul, we assist tenants with:

• Responding to Allegations of Lease Violations: Tenants may be accused of breaching the lease by failing to pay rent, subletting without permission, or damaging the property. We help tenants respond to these claims, negotiate resolutions, and, when necessary, defend against eviction actions in court.
• Addressing Habitability and Repair Issues: If a landlord fails to make necessary repairs, tenants may have legal options such as rent withholding or repair-and-deduct remedies. We assist tenants in asserting these rights while ensuring they remain in compliance with other lease obligations.
• Security Deposit Disputes: Landlords are legally required to return security deposits within a specified time frame and provide an itemized list of any deductions. We help tenants recover wrongfully withheld deposits and challenge unlawful charges.
• Protection from Wrongful Eviction: Maryland law requires that landlords follow proper legal procedures before evicting a tenant. We represent tenants who are facing eviction without proper notice or due process.

Through responsive and informed representation, we help tenants protect their housing stability and avoid unnecessary legal consequences.

Legal Representation for Landlords

Landlords face unique challenges in protecting their property, maintaining cash flow, and ensuring compliance with lease terms. Our attorneys work with landlords of residential and commercial properties to resolve disputes and manage legal risks, including:

• Non-Payment of Rent: We assist landlords in taking appropriate legal action when tenants fail to pay rent, including issuing notices, filing complaints for summary ejectment (eviction), and obtaining judgments for unpaid rent.
• Property Damage Claims: When tenants cause damage beyond normal use, we help landlords document the losses and pursue compensation through security deposits or legal action.
• Lease Enforcement: We assist in enforcing specific provisions of lease agreements, including no-sublease clauses, use restrictions, and maintenance responsibilities, ensuring that landlords can maintain control over their property.
• Eviction Proceedings: Maryland law outlines strict procedures for evicting a tenant. We guide landlords through the eviction process to avoid procedural errors and potential liability for unlawful eviction.

Our attorneys work proactively with landlords to minimize risk, resolve disputes efficiently, and preserve the value of their rental investments.

Contact Our Silver Spring, MD Landlord-Tenant Attorneys

Whether you are a landlord enforcing lease terms or a tenant trying to protect your rights, having knowledgeable legal counsel can make a critical difference. At Fox & Moghul, we provide dedicated representation in landlord-tenant matters, helping clients resolve disputes and move forward with clarity and confidence. Contact our Silver Spring landlord-tenant attorneys at 301-409-5316 to schedule your consultation.