Md. Code, Real Property § 14-101
Any alien who is not an enemy, may own, sell, devise, dispose of, or otherwise deal with property in the same manner as if he had been a citizen of the State by birth.
Md. Code, Real Property, Title 14
Md. Code, Real Property, Title 14
in effectMd. Code, Real Property § 14-102
(a) Any mortgagor, including a grantor under a deed of trust given as security for the payment of a debt or the performance of an obligation, any other person in possession of land, any life tenant, tenant for years, tenant at will, periodic tenant, tenant in common or joint tenant, who, without express or implied authorization, commits or permits waste is liable for the actual damages suffered by the property. An action may be maintained against the person even though he later may grant or assign his interest or estate in the land.
(b) If waste is committed after an injunction to stay waste, the court shall ascertain the damage done by the waste, by affidavit or other proof as the court determines necessary, and may fine the defendant to the extent of double the damage ascertained. If the final judgment is in favor of the injured party the court may determine the amount to be paid to him and the remainder shall be applied as a fine. The court may imprison a person who does not comply with the order to pay and may issue execution in the name of the State for its collection.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-103
(a) If a legal or equitable interest in land is sold under an execution sale, judicial sale, or foreclosure sale except a sale under Title 14, Chapter 200 of the Maryland Rules, and a deed is executed and delivered to the purchaser by the sheriff, trustee, agent, or other officer making the sale, the grantee in the deed, when recorded, is entitled to the same protection against the legal or equitable interests of persons not of record as is provided in this article for the benefit of grantees in deeds voluntarily executed, delivered, and recorded.
(b) If there is a decree for the sale of any reversion in lands to which rent is incident, the court may order any rent in arrears to be sold with the estate and the purchaser may recover the rent by distress, entry, or action, as if he was owner of the estate when the rent accrued.
(c) If a sale is made on credit, the court, on application of the mortgagee or creditor, may direct any bond taken in consequence of the sale to be assigned to the mortgagee or creditor and the assignee may sue on the bond in his own name.
(d) The court may decree a sale of an equitable title in any case where a decree for the sale of the legal title could be passed. The purchaser of the equitable title has the same remedy for obtaining the legal title as the person whose equitable interest he purchased would have had if no sale had been made.
(e) If property is sold pursuant to a judicial decree, all costs of the proceedings accruing up to and including the final ratification of the sale shall be paid prior to the final ratification of the first auditor’s account after the sale. The costs shall include the fees for recording all papers which are proper to be recorded by law. After payment of the costs, the clerk of the court shall record all the proper required papers.
(f) (1) In Baltimore City, if a foreclosure sale under a mortgage or a deed of trust of an interest in land is ratified, the person making the sale shall cause to be recorded in the land records a copy of the final order of ratification within 90 days of the date of the final order of ratification if:
(i) The vendor and the purchaser are the same; and
(ii) A deed is not recorded.
(2) The copy of the final order of ratification shall include the name and address of the purchaser.
(3) This subsection does not apply to a foreclosure that is subject to a stay issued by a court in a bankruptcy proceeding.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-104
(a) In this section, “first-time Maryland home buyer” means an individual who has never owned in the State residential real property that has been the individual’s principal residence.
(b) Except as provided in subsection (c) of this section, in every written or oral agreement for the sale or other disposition of property, it is presumed in the absence of a contrary provision in the agreement or the law, that the parties to the agreement intended that the cost of any recordation tax or any State or local transfer tax shall be shared equally between the grantor and grantee. This section does not apply to mortgages or deeds of trust.
(c) (1) The entire amount of recordation tax and local transfer tax shall be paid by the seller of improved, residential real property that is sold to a first-time Maryland home buyer who will occupy the property as a principal residence, unless there is an express agreement between the parties to the agreement that the recordation tax and local transfer tax will not be paid entirely by the seller.
(2) The entire amount of State transfer tax shall be paid by the seller of improved, residential real property that is sold to a first-time Maryland home buyer who will occupy the property as a principal residence.
(3) This subsection does not apply to tax sales of property under Title 14, Subtitle 8 of the Tax - Property Article.
(4) If there are two or more grantees, this subsection does not apply unless each grantee is a first-time Maryland home buyer or a co-maker or guarantor of a purchase money mortgage or purchase money deed of trust as defined in § 12-108(i) of the Tax - Property Article for the property and the co-maker or guarantor will not occupy the residence as the co-maker’s or guarantor’s principal residence.
(5) Paragraphs (1) and (2) of this subsection apply only if each grantee or an agent of the grantee provides a statement that is signed under oath by the grantee or agent of the grantee stating that:
(i) 1. The grantee is a first-time Maryland home buyer as defined under subsection (a) of this section; and
2. The residence will be occupied by the grantee as the grantee’s principal residence; or
(ii) 1. The grantee is a co-maker or guarantor of a purchase money mortgage or purchase money deed of trust as defined in § 12-108(i) of the Tax - Property Article for the property; and
2. The grantee will not occupy the residence as the co-maker’s or guarantor’s principal residence.
(6) A statement under paragraph (5) of this subsection by an agent of a grantee shall state that the statement:
(i) Is based on a diligent inquiry made by the agent with respect to the facts set forth in the statement; and
(ii) Is true to the best of the knowledge, information, and belief of the agent.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-104.1
§14–104.1.
If a bank, mortgage banker, savings and loan association, or any other lender has an appraisal made on residential real property to establish a market value for lending purposes, the lender shall give a copy of any written appraisal to the borrower on his request if the borrower pays the cost of the appraisal. The appraisal may be submitted to another lender if the original lender has rejected the borrower’s loan application.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-105
In the absence of special agreement to the contrary, if a real estate broker employed to sell, buy, lease, or otherwise negotiate an estate, or a mortgage or loan secured by the property, procures in good faith a purchaser, vendor, lessor, lessee, mortgagor, mortgagee, borrower, or lender, as the case may be, and the person procured is accepted by the employer and enters into a valid, binding, and enforceable written contract, in terms acceptable to the employer, of a sale, purchase, lease, mortgage, loan, or other contract, as the case may be, and the contract is accepted by the employer and signed by him, the broker is deemed to have earned the customary or agreed commission. He has earned the commission regardless of whether or not the contract entered into is performed, unless the performance of the contract is prevented, hindered, or delayed by any act of the broker.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-106
A tenant in common or a joint tenant who receives rent from a third party for the use and enjoyment of the property is accountable to any cotenant for that portion of the rent over and above his proportionate share.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-108
(a) Any person in actual peaceable possession of property, or, if the property is vacant and unoccupied, in constructive and peaceable possession of it, either under color of title or claim of right by reason of the person or the person’s predecessor’s adverse possession for the statutory period, when the person’s title to the property is denied or disputed, or when any other person claims, of record or otherwise to own the property, or any part of it, or to hold any lien encumbrance on it, regardless of whether or not the hostile outstanding claim is being actively asserted, and if an action at law or proceeding in equity is not pending to enforce or test the validity of the title, lien, encumbrance, or other adverse claim, the person may maintain a suit in accordance with Subtitle 6 of this title in the circuit court for the county where the property or any part of the property is located to quiet or remove any cloud from the title, or determine any adverse claim.
(b) The proceeding shall be deemed in rem or quasi in rem so long as the only relief sought is a decree that the plaintiff has absolute ownership and the right of disposition of the property, and an injunction against the assertion by the person named as the party defendant, of the person’s claim by any action at law or otherwise. Any person who appears of record, or claims to have a hostile outstanding right, shall be made a defendant in the proceedings.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-108.1
§14–108.1.
(a) This section does not apply to:
(1) A grantee action under § 14–109 of this subtitle;
(2) A landlord–tenant action that is within the exclusive original jurisdiction of the District Court;
(3) An action for nonpayment of ground rent under a ground lease on residential property that is or was used, intended to be used, or authorized to be used for four or fewer dwelling units; or
(4) An action for wrongful detainer under § 14–132 of this subtitle.
(b) (1) A person who is not in possession of property and claims title and right to possession may bring an action for possession against the person in possession of the property.
(2) Encumbrance of property by a mortgage or deed of trust to secure a debt does not prevent an action under this section by the owner of the property.
(c) When personal jurisdiction is not obtained over the defendant, the plaintiff may obtain a default judgment under the Maryland Rules only on proof of title and right to possession. The judgment shall be in rem for possession of the property. Entry and enforcement of the judgment does not bar further pursuit, in the same or another action, of the plaintiff’s claim for mesne profits and damages.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-109
(a) The District Court has jurisdiction in any case in which it appears that the grantor has remained in possession of the property, in violation of a written agreement to deliver possession at a time stated in the agreement, after delivery of a deed for the property. If the grantor fails or refuses to surrender the premises in accordance with the agreement, the grantee may complain in writing to the District Court in the county where the premises are located. The court immediately shall issue a summons to the grantor commanding him to appear on the day named to show cause why possession of the premises in dispute should not be granted to the grantee. Notwithstanding any contrary provision of law or local law, if the court finds that the facts set forth in the complaint are true, it shall give judgment for immediate possession, and the court shall issue its warrant to the sheriff commanding him to deliver possession of the premises to the grantee.
(b) Any person who feels aggrieved by a judgment under the provisions of this section, may appeal on giving notice within ten days after the judgment is given. If the appellant is the grantor, the notice of appeal shall be accompanied by an affidavit, that an appeal is not taken for delay, and by a bond. The bond shall be conditioned that he will prosecute the appeal with effect, and will pay all costs in the case before the District Court and appellate court if judgment is in favor of the grantee, and all loss or damage which the grantee suffers by reason of the grantor’s remaining in possession. The bond also shall provide that the grantor may retain possession of the premises until the determination of the appeal.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-110
(a) If any person is entitled to an estate for life or years or to an estate tail, fee simple, conditional, base or qualified fee, or any other particular, limited, or conditional estate in property, and any other person is entitled to a vested or contingent remainder, executory devise, or any other vested or contingent interest in the same property, on application of any of the parties in interest and if all parties in being are parties to the proceeding, a court of equity may decree a sale, lease, or mortgage if it appears to be advantageous to the parties concerned. The court shall direct the investment of the proceeds of the sale, mortgage, or limitations of the reversion and rent as the case may be, so these inure to the use of the same parties who would be entitled to it if the property is sold, leased, or mortgaged.
(b) If every person who would be entitled to the property if the contingency happened at the date of the decree is a party, the decree binds every person whether he is in being or not, who claims or may claim any interest in the property under any party to the decree, under any person from whom any party to the decree claims, or under the original deed or will by which the particular, limited, or conditional estate, with remainders or executory devises, is created. Any mortgage executed pursuant to the decree binds the property so mortgaged of every person, whether in being or not.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-111
(a) Each individual licensed to practice land surveying or property line surveying under the Maryland Professional Land Surveyors Act shall use the type of stake, marker, monument, or other landmark designated by the State Board for Professional Land Surveyors.
(b) Any person who willfully obliterates, damages, or removes any stake, marker, monument, or other landmark set in the property of another person by any civil engineer, surveyor, or real estate appraiser or any of their assistants, except if the stake, marker, monument, or other landmark interferes with the proper use of the property, is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction shall be fined not more than $2,500.
(c) If there is a dispute over any boundary line or if the bounds mentioned in a document are lost, on petition of any party in interest, the circuit court of the county where the property lies may establish the boundary lines or the location of the missing bounds. The court may appoint engineers, surveyors, or other experts to assist the court in its determination, and the fees of the experts are costs in the proceeding.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-112
(a) In this section, “trustee” includes any escrowee, agent, attorney, representative, or fiduciary.
(b) If any person holds or takes title to property in the capacity of trustee and the beneficiary is not designated in the instrument by which the trustee takes title or in another instrument signed by the grantor and previously recorded, then the trustee and his personal representative have the power to grant, encumber, or otherwise dispose of the property, except to the extent the power is limited by the term of the grant to the trustee or in another instrument signed by his grantor and previously recorded, unless an instrument signed by the trustee which designates the beneficiary is recorded prior to disposition by the trustee.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-113
(a) Any deed by a Maryland corporation, having an effective date before October 1, 2018, containing a certification by the person executing the deed on behalf of the corporation to the effect that the grant is not part of a transaction in which there is a sale, lease, exchange, or other transfer of all or substantially all of the property and assets of the corporation, shall be considered valid and effective whether or not there has been compliance with the procedures of Title 3, Subtitle 1 of the Corporations and Associations Article despite the fact the grant is in fact part of such a transaction.
(b) Any deed by a Maryland corporation, executed and recorded before January 1, 1979 is not invalid solely because of noncompliance with those procedures unless proceedings to set the deed aside were commenced on or before July 1, 1979.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-114
If a party evicted by a writ of possession reenters on the property without the consent of the purchaser, he is guilty of a misdemeanor. On conviction, he is subject to a fine not exceeding $100, or imprisonment not exceeding 60 days, or both.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-115
Except to the extent that any of the British statutes in force in the State on July 4, 1776 which have been enacted by the General Assembly of Maryland are contained elsewhere in the Code, the following British statutes are no longer in force in the State:
9 Henry III, Ch. 7
9 Henry III, Ch. 8
9 Henry III, Ch. 18
20 Henry III, Ch. 1
20 Henry III, Ch. 2
20 Henry III, Ch. 9
51 Henry III, Stat. 4
52 Henry III, Ch. 4
52 Henry III, Ch. 15
52 Henry III, Ch. 23
3 Edward I, Ch. 16
3 Edward I, Ch. 17
3 Edward I, Ch. 49
4 Edward I, Stat. 3, Ch. 6
6 Edward I, Ch. 5
6 Edward I, Ch. 7
13 Edward I, Stat. 1, Ch. 2
13 Edward I, Stat. 1, Ch. 3
13 Edward I, Stat. 1, Ch. 4
13 Edward I, Stat. 1, Ch. 7
13 Edward I, Stat. 1, Ch. 14
13 Edward I, Stat. 1, Ch. 15
13 Edward I, Stat. 1, Ch. 22
13 Edward I, Stat. 1, Ch. 24
13 Edward I, Stat. 1, Ch. 31
13 Edward I, Stat. 1, Ch. 37
33 Edward I, Stat. 6
17 Edward II, Stat. 1, Ch. 9
17 Edward II, Stat. 1, Ch. 10
25 Edward III, Stat. 5, Ch. 17
9 Richard II, Ch. 3
11 Henry VI, Ch. 5
1 Richard III, Ch. 1
3 Henry VII, Ch. 4
11 Henry VII, Ch. 20
19 Henry VII, Ch. 9
7 Henry VIII, Ch. 4
21 Henry VIII, Ch. 4
21 Henry VIII, Ch. 5
21 Henry VIII, Ch. 19
23 Henry VIII, Ch. 14
27 Henry VIII, Ch. 10
31 Henry VIII, Ch. 1
32 Henry VIII, Ch. 9
32 Henry VIII, Ch. 28
32 Henry VIII, Ch. 32
32 Henry VIII, Ch. 33
32 Henry VIII, Ch. 34
32 Henry VIII, Ch. 37
1 & 2 Phillip and Mary, Ch. 12
13 Elizabeth, Ch. 5
27 Elizabeth, Ch. 4
43 Elizabeth, Ch. 8
21 James I, Ch. 15
21 James I, Ch. 16
12 Charles II, Ch. 24
17 Charles II, Ch. 7
19 Charles II, Ch. 6
29 Charles II, Ch. 3
30 Charles II, Ch. 7
2 William and Mary, Ch. 5
3 & 4 William and Mary, Ch. 14
4 & 5 William and Mary, Ch. 16
4 & 5 William and Mary, Ch. 20
4 & 5 William and Mary, Ch. 24
8 & 9 William III, Ch. 31
10 and 11 William III, Ch. 16
4 Anne, Ch. 16, Secs. 9, 10 and 27
6 Anne, Ch. 18
7 Anne, Ch. 19
8 Anne, Ch. 14
4 George II, Ch. 10
4 George II, Ch. 28
5 George II, Ch. 7
6 George II, Ch. 14
7 George II, Ch. 20
11 George II, Ch. 19
25 George II, Ch. 6
29 George II, Ch. 31
11 George III, Ch. 20
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-115.1
§14–115.1.
With regard to any property owned or acquired by any means by the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore that is subject to a ground rent, any bill, notice, or other document for legal or other action shall be sent to the Director, Baltimore City Department of Finance.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-117
(a) (1) In this subsection, “water and sewer authority” includes a person to which the duties and responsibilities of the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission have been delegated by a written agreement or in accordance with a local ordinance.
(2) A contract for the initial sale of improved, residential real property to a member of the public who intends to occupy or rent the property for residential purposes shall disclose the estimated cost, as established by the appropriate water and sewer authority, of any deferred water and sewer charges for which the purchaser may become liable.
(3) (i) In Prince George’s County, a contract for the initial sale of residential real property for which there are deferred private water and sewer assessments recorded by a covenant or declaration deferring costs for water and sewer improvements for which the purchaser may be liable shall contain a disclosure that includes:
1. The existence of the deferred private water and sewer assessments;
2. The amount of the annual assessment;
3. The approximate number of payments remaining on the assessment;
4. The amount remaining on the assessment, including interest;
5. The name and address of the person or entity most recently responsible for collection of the assessment;
6. The interest rate on the assessment;
7. The estimated payoff amount of the assessment; and
8. A statement that payoff of the assessment is allowed without prepayment penalty.
(ii) A person or entity establishing water and sewer costs for the initial sale of residential real property may not amortize costs that are passed on to a purchaser by imposing a deferred water and sewer charge for a period longer than 20 years after the date of the initial sale.
(4) If the appropriate water and sewer authority has not established a schedule of charges for the water and sewer project that benefits residential real property or if a local jurisdiction has adopted a plan to benefit residential real property in the future, the contract for the initial sale of the residential real property shall disclose that fact.
(5) (i) This paragraph does not apply in a county that has adopted a disclosure requirement that is substantially similar to the disclosure requirement in subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph.
(ii) A contract for the resale of residential real property that is served by public water or wastewater facilities for which deferred water and sewer charges have been established by a recorded covenant or declaration shall contain a notice in substantially the following form:
“NOTICE REQUIRED BY MARYLAND LAW REGARDING
DEFERRED WATER AND SEWER CHARGES
This property is subject to a fee or assessment that purports to cover or defray the cost of installing or maintaining during construction all or part of the public water or wastewater facilities constructed by the developer. This fee or assessment is $____, payable annually in (__month__) until (__date__) to (__name and address__) (hereafter called “lienholder”).
There may be a right of prepayment or a discount for early prepayment, which may be ascertained by contacting the lienholder. This fee or assessment is a contractual obligation between the lienholder and each owner of this property, and is not in any way a fee or assessment imposed by the county in which the property is located.”.
(b) (1) Violation of subsection (a)(2) or (4) of this section entitles the initial purchaser to recover from the seller:
(i) Two times the amount of deferred charges the purchaser would be obligated to pay during the 5 years of payments following the sale;
(ii) No amount greater than actually paid thereafter; and
(iii) Any deposit money actually paid by the purchaser that was lost as a result of a violation of subsection (a)(2) or (4) of this section.
(2) Violation of subsection (a)(3) of this section entitles the purchaser to:
(i) Recover from the seller the total amount of deferred charges the purchaser will be obligated to pay following the sale;
(ii) Recover from the seller any money actually paid by the purchaser on the deferred charge that was lost as a result of a violation of subsection (a)(3) of this section; or
(iii) If the violation is discovered before settlement, rescind the real estate contract without penalty.
(3) (i) Violation of subsection (a)(5) of this section entitles the purchaser:
1. If the violation is discovered before settlement, to rescind in writing the sales contract without penalty or liability;
2. On rescission, to the full return of any deposits made on account of the sales contract; and
3. After settlement, to payment from the seller for the full amount of any fee or assessment not disclosed, unless the seller was never charged a fee or assessment to defray the costs of public water or wastewater facilities by the developer, a successor of the developer, or a subsequent assignee.
(ii) The purchaser’s right to rescind under this paragraph shall terminate 5 days after the seller provides a written notice in accordance with subsection (a)(5) of this section.
(iii) If any deposits are held in trust by a licensed real estate broker, the return of the deposits to a purchaser under this paragraph shall comply with the procedures under § 17–505 of the Business Occupations and Professions Article.
(c) (1) A contract for use in the sale of residential property used as a dwelling place for one or two single–family units shall contain, in the manner provided under paragraph (2) of this subsection, the following statement:
“Section 14–104 of the Real Property Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland provides that, unless otherwise negotiated in the contract or provided by State or local law, the cost of any recordation tax or any State or local transfer tax shall be shared equally between the buyer and seller.”
(2) The statement required under paragraph (1) of this subsection shall be printed in conspicuous type or handwritten in the contract or an addendum to the contract.
(d) A contract or an addendum to the contract for the sale of real property shall contain in conspicuous type the following statement:
“Notice to buyer concerning the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area
Buyer is advised that all or a portion of the property may be located in the “critical area” of the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays, and that additional zoning, land use, and resource protection regulations apply in this area. The “critical area” generally consists of all land and water areas within 1,000 feet beyond the landward boundaries of State or private wetlands, the Chesapeake Bay, the Atlantic Coastal Bays, and all of their tidal tributaries. The “critical area” also includes the waters of and lands under the Chesapeake Bay, the Atlantic Coastal Bays, and all of their tidal tributaries to the head of tide. For information as to whether the property is located within the critical area, buyer may contact the local department of planning and zoning, which maintains maps showing the extent of the critical area in the jurisdiction. Allegany, Carroll, Frederick, Garrett, Howard, Montgomery, and Washington counties do not include land located in the critical area.”.
(e) A contract of sale shall also comply with the following provisions, if applicable:
(1) Section 17–405 of the Business Occupations and Professions Article (notice of purchaser’s protection by the Real Estate Guaranty Fund in an amount not to exceed $25,000);
(2) Section 17–504 of the Business Occupations and Professions Article (notice by real estate broker pertaining to deposit in noninterest bearing account);
(3) Section 17–523 of the Business Occupations and Professions Article (notice by real estate broker about recordation and transfer taxes);
(4) Section 17–524 of the Business Occupations and Professions Article (notice of purchaser’s right to select title company, settlement company, escrow company, mortgage lender, or financial institution);
(5) Section 8A–605 of this article (notice of park rules to be given to buyer pertaining to sales of mobile homes);
(6) Section 10–103 of this article (notices and disclosures pertaining to land installment contracts);
(7) Sections 10–301 and 10–306 of this article (requirements and disclosures pertaining to deposits on new homes);
(8) Sections 10–505 and 10–506 of this article (requirements and disclosures pertaining to contracts between custom home builders and buyers);
(9) Sections 10–602, 10–603, 10–604(b), and 10–605 of this article (notices, disclosures, and requirements pertaining to new home warranties);
(10) Section 10–701 of this article (notice pertaining to sale of real property in Prince George’s County creating subdivision);
(11) Section 10–702 of this article (disclosure or disclaimer statements pertaining to single–family residential real property);
(12) Section 10–703 of this article (notice pertaining to land use in county land–use plans in Anne Arundel County);
(13) Section 11–126 of this article (notice pertaining to initial sale of condominium unit);
(14) Section 11–135 of this article (notice pertaining to resale of condominium unit);
(15) Sections 11A–112, 11A–115, and 11A–118 of this article (statements and requirements pertaining to time–shares);
(16) Section 11B–105 of this article (notice pertaining to initial sale of lot in development containing more than 12 lots);
(17) Section 11B–106 of this article (notice pertaining to resale of any lot or initial sale of lot in development containing 12 or fewer lots);
(18) Section 11B–107 of this article (notice pertaining to initial sale of lot not intended to be occupied or rented for residential purposes);
(19) Section 5–6B–02 of the Corporations and Associations Article (notice pertaining to initial sale of cooperative interests);
(20) Section 13–308 of the Tax – Property Article (notice of liability for agricultural land transfer tax);
(21) Section 13–504 of the Tax – Property Article (notice of liability for agricultural land transfer tax in Washington County);
(22) Section 6–824 of the Environment Article (disclosure pertaining to obligations to perform risk reduction);
(23) Section 10–711 of this article (notice on zones of dewatering influence); and
(24) Section 10–715 of this article (disclosure pertaining to assignment of contracts of sale by wholesale buyers and wholesale sellers).
(f) Unless otherwise specifically provided, a contract of sale is not rendered invalid by the omission of any statement referred to in this section.
(g) (1) This subsection applies to Prince George’s County.
(2) A contract for the sale of real property on which a development impact fee has been imposed shall contain a notice to the purchaser stating:
(i) That a development impact fee has been imposed on the property;
(ii) The total amount of the impact fee that has been imposed on the property; and
(iii) The amount of the impact fee, if any, that is unpaid on the date of the contract for the sale of the property.
(3) Violation of paragraph (2) of this subsection entitles the initial purchaser to recover from the seller:
(i) Two times the amount of development impact fees the purchaser would be obligated to pay following the sale;
(ii) No amount greater than actually paid thereafter; and
(iii) Any deposit money actually paid by the purchaser that was lost as a result of violation of paragraph (2) of this subsection.
(h) (1) This subsection applies to St. Mary’s and Charles counties.
(2) A contract for the sale of agriculturally assessed real property shall include the following information:
“Notice: under § 9–241 of the Environment Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland, the Department of the Environment is required to maintain permanent records regarding every permit issued for the utilization of sewage sludge, including the application of sewage sludge on farm land. A prospective buyer has the right to ascertain all such information regarding the property being sold under this transaction.”
(3) Omission of the notice required under paragraph (2) of this subsection may not be a basis for invalidation of the contract for sale.
(i) (1) This subsection applies to Baltimore City and all other counties except Montgomery County.
(2) A contract for the initial sale of a new home, as defined in the Maryland Home Builder Registration Act, shall include the following:
(i) The builder registration number of the seller of the new home;
(ii) A provision stating that the new home shall be constructed in accordance with all applicable building codes in effect at the time of the construction of the new home;
(iii) A provision referencing all performance standards or guidelines:
1. That the seller shall comply with in the construction of the new home; and
2. That shall prevail in the performance of the contract and any arbitration or adjudication of a claim arising from the contract; and
(iv) A provision detailing the purchaser’s right to receive a consumer information pamphlet as provided under the Home Builder Registration Act.
(3) The performance standards or guidelines described in paragraph (2) of this subsection shall be:
(i) The performance standards or guidelines adopted at the time of the contract:
1. By the National Association of Home Builders; or
2. Under the federal National Manufactured Housing Construction and Safety Standards Act, to the extent applicable;
(ii) Any performance standards or guidelines adopted by the home builder and incorporated into the contract that are equal to or more stringent than the performance standards or guidelines adopted at the time of the contract:
1. By the National Association of Home Builders; or
2. Under the federal National Manufactured Housing Construction and Safety Standards Act, to the extent applicable; or
(iii) Any performance standards or guidelines adopted at the time of the contract by a county or municipal corporation that are equal to or more stringent than the performance standards or guidelines adopted at the time of the contract:
1. By the National Association of Home Builders; or
2. Under the federal National Manufactured Housing Construction and Safety Standards Act, to the extent applicable.
(4) The information required by paragraph (2) of this subsection shall be printed in conspicuous type.
(j) (1) A contract for the initial sale of a new home, as defined in the Maryland Home Builder Registration Act, shall be contingent on the purchaser obtaining a written commitment for a loan secured by the property, unless the contract contains a provision expressly stating that it is not contingent.
(2) If the contract is contingent on the purchaser obtaining a written commitment for a loan secured by the property, the contract shall state:
(i) The maximum loan interest rate the purchaser is obligated to accept; and
(ii) The time period within which the purchaser must obtain a written commitment for a loan.
(3) If a purchaser does not obtain a written commitment for a loan in accordance with the terms of the contract, including terms relating to the time period for obtaining the written commitment:
(i) At the seller’s election and on written notice to the purchaser, the seller may declare the contract void and of no effect; or
(ii) On written notice to the seller accompanied by written documentation from a lender evidencing the purchaser’s inability to obtain a loan in accordance with the terms of the contract, the purchaser may declare the contract void and of no effect.
(4) (i) The seller shall return to the purchaser any deposit paid under the contract if:
1. The purchaser has complied with the purchaser’s obligations under the contract; and
2. The purchaser or the seller has declared the contract void and of no effect under paragraph (3) of this subsection.
(ii) If the deposit is held by a licensed real estate broker, the deposit shall be distributed in accordance with § 17–505 of the Business Occupations and Professions Article.
(k) (1) This subsection does not apply in Allegany, Carroll, Frederick, Garrett, Howard, Montgomery, and Washington counties.
(2) A contract for the sale of residential real property shall contain the following statement:
“Buyer is advised that the property may be located near a military installation that conducts flight operations, munitions testing, or military operations that may result in high noise levels.”.
(3) All local laws requiring a statement or notice substantially similar to the statement required under paragraph (2) of this subsection prevail over the requirements of this subsection.
(l) (1) This subsection applies to Anne Arundel County.
(2) Subject to paragraph (3) of this subsection, if Anne Arundel County or the State has initiated enforcement action for a violation of a local law described in § 5–106(aa)(1) of the Courts and Judicial Proceedings Article, a contract for sale of the real property where the violation occurred shall disclose:
(i) The nature of the violation;
(ii) The status of any ongoing proceedings to enforce the violation; and
(iii) Any actions the buyer of the real property may be required to take with respect to the property in order to cure the violation.
(3) If a violation of a local law described in § 5–106(aa)(1) of the Courts and Judicial Proceedings Article is cured and a buyer of the real property where the violation occurred would not have any obligation to cure the violation, paragraph (2) of this subsection does not apply.
(m) (1) This subsection applies only to a development that contains 11 or more new homes to be built by the same home builder.
(2) A contract for the initial sale of a new home, as defined in the Maryland Home Builder Registration Act, shall contain an acknowledgment that the purchaser was provided by the home builder with written information about any energy–efficient options, including a statement that tax credits may be available related to the energy–efficient options, that are available for installation in the home before construction of the home is completed.
(n) A contract for the sale of residential property shall include:
(1) The statement “If you plan to live in this home as your principal residence, you may qualify for the homestead property tax credit. The homestead property tax credit may significantly reduce the amount of property taxes you owe.”; and
(2) The website address of the document required under § 9–105(f)(5) of the Tax – Property Article.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-117.1
§14–117.1.
(a) This section applies only to existing single–family residential real property in Prince George’s County.
(b) A person or entity that imposes a deferred water and sewer charge shall include with each bill a statement that includes:
(1) The amount of the annual assessment;
(2) The approximate number of payments remaining on the assessment;
(3) The amount remaining on the assessment, including interest;
(4) The name and address of the person or entity most recently responsible for collection of the assessment;
(5) The method used to compute the deferred water and sewer charge on the property;
(6) The interest rate on the assessment;
(7) The estimated payoff amount of the assessment; and
(8) A statement that payoff of the assessment is allowed without prepayment penalty.
(c) The balance owed on a deferred water and sewer assessment may be redeemed at the present value of the assessment.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-118
(a) (1) In this section, “governing body” means a person who has the authority to enforce:
(i) The provisions of a declaration, as defined under § 11–103 of the Maryland Condominium Act;
(ii) Articles of incorporation of a council of unit owners, of a cooperative housing corporation as defined under the Maryland Cooperative Housing Corporation Act, or of a homeowners association, as defined under the Maryland Homeowners Association Act; or
(iii) The provisions of bylaws, rules, and regulations of a condominium, as defined under the Maryland Condominium Act, of a cooperative housing corporation as defined under the Maryland Cooperative Housing Corporation Act, or of a homeowners association, as defined under the Maryland Homeowners Association Act.
(2) “Governing body” includes:
(i) A homeowners association, as defined under the Maryland Homeowners Association Act;
(ii) A council of unit owners of a condominium, as described in the Maryland Condominium Act; or
(iii) A cooperative housing corporation.
(b) A person sustaining an injury as a result of the tortious act of an officer or director of a governing body while the officer or director is acting within the scope of the officer’s or director’s duties may recover only in an action brought against the governing body for the damages described under § 5–422(b) of the Courts and Judicial Proceedings Article.
(c) In a proceeding against a governing body, a director or officer of a governing body shall have the immunity from liability described under § 5–422(c) of the Courts and Judicial Proceedings Article.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-119
(a) In this section:
(1) “Cemetery” means the land or structures in Carroll County identified by the Carroll County Genealogical Society that are used for the interment of human remains; and
(2) “Cemetery” includes a grave, burial ground, monument, or gravestone.
(b) This section does not apply to a permanent cemetery that is owned by:
(1) A cemetery company regulated under Title 5 of the Business Regulation Article;
(2) A nonprofit organization; or
(3) A governmental unit within the State.
(c) A person who owns land in Carroll County on which all or a part of a cemetery is located shall:
(1) Record the location of the cemetery without using a survey in the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court for Carroll County; and
(2) Give written notice of the location of the cemetery without using a survey to any prospective buyer of the land.
(d) A person who removes any human remains, monument, or gravestone from a cemetery located on land in Carroll County shall:
(1) Comply with § 10-402 or § 10-404 of the Criminal Law Article;
(2) Place the human remains, monument, or gravestone in a permanent cemetery in Carroll County; and
(3) Record the new location of the human remains, monument, or gravestone in the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court for Carroll County.
(e) The Clerk of the Circuit Court for Carroll County shall index and file documents received under this section in the land records under the grantor index.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-120
(a) (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2) “Commercial property” does not include residential rental property.
(3) “Community association” means:
(i) A nonprofit association, corporation, or other organization that is:
1. Comprised of residents of a community within which a nuisance is located;
2. Operated exclusively for the promotion of social welfare and general neighborhood improvement and enhancement; and
3. Exempt from taxation under § 501(c)(3) or (4) of the Internal Revenue Code; or
(ii) A nonprofit association, corporation, or other organization that is:
1. Comprised of residents of a contiguous community that is defined by specific geographic boundaries, within which a nuisance is located; and
2. Operated for the promotion of the welfare, improvement and enhancement of that community.
(4) “Controlled dangerous substance” means a substance listed in Schedule I or Schedule II under § 5–402 or § 5–403 of the Criminal Law Article.
(5) “Nuisance” means a property that is used:
(i) 1. By persons who assemble for the specific purpose of illegally administering a controlled dangerous substance;
2. For the illegal manufacture, or distribution of:
A. A controlled dangerous substance; or
B. Controlled paraphernalia, as defined in § 5–101 of the Criminal Law Article; or
3. For the illegal storage or concealment of a controlled dangerous substance in sufficient quantity to reasonably indicate under all the circumstances an intent to manufacture, distribute, or dispense:
A. A controlled dangerous substance; or
B. Controlled paraphernalia, as defined in § 5–101 of the Criminal Law Article; or
(ii) For prostitution.
(6) (i) “Operator” means a person that exercises control over property.
(ii) “Operator” includes a property manager or any other person that is authorized to evict a tenant.
(7) “Owner” includes an owner–occupant.
(8) “Owner–occupant” includes an owner of commercial property that conducts business in any part of the property.
(9) “Property” includes a mobile home.
(10) “Prostitution” has the meaning stated in § 11–301 of the Criminal Law Article.
(11) (i) “Tenant” means the lessee or a person occupying property, whether or not a party to a lease.
(ii) “Tenant” includes a lessee or a person occupying a mobile home, whether or not a party to a lease.
(iii) “Tenant” does not include:
1. The owner of the property; or
2. A mobile home owner who leases or rents a site for residential use and resides in a mobile home park.
(b) An action under § 4–401 of the Courts Article to abate a nuisance may be brought by:
(1) The State’s Attorney of the county in which the nuisance is located;
(2) The county attorney or solicitor of the county in which the nuisance is located;
(3) A community association within whose boundaries the nuisance is located; or
(4) A municipal corporation within whose boundaries the nuisance is located.
(c) An action under § 4–401 of the Courts Article to abate a nuisance may be brought against:
(1) A tenant of the property where the nuisance is located;
(2) An owner of the property where the nuisance is located; or
(3) An operator of the property where the nuisance is located.
(d) (1) (i) Except as provided in subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, an action may not be brought under this section concerning a commercial property until 30 days after the tenant, if any, and owner of record receive notice from a person entitled to bring an action under this section that a nuisance exists.
(ii) In Baltimore City, an action may not be brought under this section concerning a commercial property until 15 days after the tenant, if any, and owner of record receive notice from a person entitled to bring an action under this section that a nuisance exists.
(2) The notice shall specify:
(i) The date and time of day the nuisance was first discovered; and
(ii) The location on the property where the nuisance is allegedly occurring.
(3) The notice shall be:
(i) Hand delivered to the tenant, if any, and the owner of record; or
(ii) Sent by certified mail to the tenant, if any, and the owner of record.
(e) (1) In addition to any service of process required by the Maryland Rules, the plaintiff shall cause to be posted in a conspicuous place on the property no later than 48 hours before the hearing the notice required under paragraph (2) of this subsection.
(2) The notice shall indicate:
(i) The nature of the proceedings;
(ii) The time and place of the hearing; and
(iii) The name and telephone number of the person to contact for additional information.
(f) A plaintiff is entitled to relief under this section whether or not an adequate remedy exists at law.
(g) (1) If, after a hearing, the court determines that a nuisance exists, the court may order any appropriate injunctive or other equitable relief.
(2) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, and in addition to or as a component of any remedy ordered under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the court may order:
(i) A tenant who knew or should have known of the existence of the nuisance to vacate the property within 72 hours; or
(ii) An owner or operator of the property to submit for court approval a plan of correction to ensure, to the extent reasonably possible, that the property will not again be used for a nuisance if:
1. The owner or operator is a party to the action; and
2. The owner or operator knew or should have known of the existence of the nuisance.
(h) (1) (i) If a tenant fails to comply with an order under subsection (g) of this section and the owner or operator, and tenant, are parties to the action, the court, after a hearing, may order restitution of the possession of the property to the owner or operator.
(ii) If the court orders restitution of the possession of the property under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph, the court shall immediately issue its warrant to the sheriff or constable commanding execution of the warrant within 5 days after issuance of the warrant.
(2) (i) This paragraph does not apply to an action brought under this section alleging the use of a property for prostitution.
(ii) If an owner, including an owner–occupant, fails to comply with an order under subsection (g) of this section, after a hearing the court may, in addition to issuing a contempt order or an order for any other relief, order that:
1. The property be sold, at the owner’s expense, in accordance with the Maryland Rules governing judicial sales; or
2. The property be demolished if the property is unfit for habitation and the estimated cost of rehabilitation significantly exceeds the estimated market value of the property after rehabilitation.
(3) (i) This paragraph applies only to an action brought under this section alleging the use of a property for prostitution.
(ii) If an owner, including an owner–occupant, fails to comply with an order under subsection (g) of this section, after a hearing, the court may issue a contempt order.
(4) If an owner–occupant fails to comply with an order under subsection (g) of this section regarding a nuisance in the owner–occupied unit of the property, after a hearing the court may, in addition to issuing a contempt order or an order for any other relief, order that:
(i) The owner–occupied unit be vacated within 72 hours; and
(ii) The owner–occupied unit remain unoccupied for a period not to exceed 1 year or until the property is sold in an arm’s length transaction.
(i) Except as provided in subsection (g)(2) of this section, the court may order appropriate relief under subsection (g) of this section without proof that a defendant knew of the existence of the nuisance.
(j) In any action brought under this section:
(1) Evidence of the general reputation of the property is admissible to corroborate testimony based on personal knowledge or observation, or evidence seized during the execution of a search and seizure warrant, but shall not, in and of itself, be sufficient to establish the existence of a nuisance under this section; and
(2) Evidence that the nuisance had been discontinued at the time of the filing of the complaint or at the time of the hearing does not bar the imposition of appropriate relief by the court under subsection (g) of this section.
(k) (1) This subsection does not apply to an action against an owner, other than an owner–occupant, brought under this section alleging the use of a property for prostitution.
(2) The court may award court costs and reasonable attorney’s fees to a community association that is the prevailing plaintiff in an action brought under this section.
(l) An action under this section shall be heard within 14 days after service of process on the parties.
(m) This section does not abrogate any equitable or legal right or remedy under existing law to abate a nuisance.
(n) (1) An appeal from a judgment or order under this section shall be filed within 10 days after the date of the order or judgment.
(2) If either party files a request for oral argument, the court shall hear the oral argument within 7 days after the request is filed.
(3) (i) If the appellant files a request for oral argument, the request shall be filed at the time of the filing of the appeal.
(ii) If the appellee files a request for oral argument, the request shall be filed within 2 days of receiving notice of the appeal.
(o) Provisions of this article or public local laws applicable to actions between a landlord and tenant are not applicable to actions brought against a landlord or a tenant under this section.
(p) All proceedings under this section are equitable in nature.
(q) (1) Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, when necessary to accomplish the purposes of this section, a law enforcement officer, an attorney in a municipal or county attorney’s office, or an attorney in an office of the State’s Attorney may disclose the contents of an executed search warrant and papers filed in connection with the search warrant to:
(i) An officer or director of the community association in which the nuisance is located, or the attorney representing the community association;
(ii) An owner, tenant, or operator of the searched property or an agent of the owner, tenant, or operator of the searched property; or
(iii) An attorney in a municipal or county attorney’s office.
(2) An affidavit may not be disclosed under this subsection while under seal in accordance with § 1–203 of the Criminal Procedure Article.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-121
(a) (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2) (i) “Burial site” means any natural or prepared physical location, whether originally located below, on, or above the surface of the earth into which human remains or associated funerary objects are deposited as a part of a death rite or ceremony of any culture, religion, or group.
(ii) “Burial site” includes the human remains and associated funerary objects that result from a shipwreck or accident and are intentionally left to remain at the site.
(3) “Cultural affiliation” means a relationship of shared group identity that can be reasonably traced historically between a present–day group, tribe, band, or clan and an identifiable earlier group.
(4) “Person in interest” means a person who:
(i) Is related by blood or marriage to the person interred in a burial site;
(ii) Is a domestic partner, as defined in § 1–101 of the Health – General Article, of a person interred in a burial site;
(iii) Has a cultural affiliation with the person interred in a burial site; or
(iv) Has an interest in a burial site that the Office of the State’s Attorney for the county where the burial site is located recognizes is in the public interest after consultation with a local burial sites advisory board or, if such a board does not exist, the Maryland Historical Trust.
(b) Any person in interest may request the owner of a burial site or of the land encompassing a burial site that has been documented or recognized as a burial site by the public or any person in interest to grant reasonable access to the burial site for the purpose of restoring, maintaining, or viewing the burial site.
(c) (1) A person requesting access to a burial site under subsection (b) or (d) of this section may execute an agreement with the owner of the burial site or of the land encompassing the burial site using a form similar to the form below:
“Permission to Enter
I hereby grant the person named below permission to enter my property, subject to the terms of the agreement, on the following dates:
Signed.......................................................................................
(Landowner)
Agreement
In return for the privilege of entering on the private property for the purpose of restoring, maintaining, or viewing the burial site or transporting human remains to the burial site, I agree to adhere to every law, observe every safety precaution and practice, take every precaution against fire, and assume all responsibility and liability for my person and my property, while on the landowner’s property.
Signed”
(2) If the owner of the burial site or of the land encompassing the burial site enters into an agreement under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the owner shall grant access to the burial site in accordance with the terms of the agreement signed under paragraph (1) of this subsection.
(d) In addition to the provisions of subsection (b) of this section, if burials are still taking place at a burial site, any person who is related by blood or marriage, heir, appointed representative, or any other person in interest may request the owner of the land encompassing the burial site to grant reasonable access to the burial site for the purpose of transporting human remains to the burial site to inter the remains of a person for whose burial the site is dedicated, if access has not been provided in a covenant or deed of record describing the metes and bounds of the burial site.
(e) Except for willful or malicious acts or omissions, the owner of a burial site or of the land encompassing a burial site who allows persons to enter or go on the land for the purposes provided in subsections (b) and (d) of this section is not liable for damages in a civil action to a person who enters on the land for injury to person or property.
(f) A person who enters land for the purposes provided in subsections (b) and (d) of this section shall be responsible for ensuring that the person’s conduct does not damage the land, the cemetery, or the gravesites, and shall be liable to the property owner for any damage caused as a result of the person’s access.
(g) (1) An owner of a burial site, a person who is related by blood or marriage to the person interred in a burial site, heir, appointed representative, or any other person in interest, or any other person may report the location of a burial site to the supervisor of assessments for a county, together with supporting documentation concerning the location and nature of the burial site.
(2) The supervisor of assessments for a county may note the presence of a burial site on a parcel on the county tax maps maintained under § 2–213 of the Tax – Property Article.
(h) Nothing in this section may be construed to interfere with the normal operation and maintenance of a public or private cemetery being operated in accordance with State law.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-121.1
§14–121.1.
(a) In this section, “burial site” has the meaning stated in § 14–121 of this subtitle.
(b) An owner of a burial site or of the land encompassing a burial site that has been in existence for more than 50 years and in which the majority of the persons interred in the burial site have been interred for more than 50 years shall consult with the Director of the Maryland Historical Trust about the proper treatment of markers, human remains, and the environment surrounding the burial site.
(c) Advice provided by the Maryland Historical Trust under this section is not binding on the owner of the burial site.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-122
(a) In this section, “burial site” means any natural or prepared physical location, whether originally below, on, or above the surface of the earth into which human remains are deposited as a part of a death rite or ceremony of any culture, religion, or group.
(b) Any county or municipal corporation that has within its jurisdiction a burial site in need of repair or maintenance may, upon the request of the owner or with permission of the owner of the burial site in need of repair or maintenance, maintain and preserve the burial site for the owner.
(c) In order to maintain and preserve a burial site or to repair or restore fences, tombs, monuments, or other structures located in a burial site, a county or municipal corporation may:
(1) Appropriate money and solicit donations from individuals or public or private corporations;
(2) Provide incentives for charitable organizations or community groups to donate their services; and
(3) Develop a community service program through which individuals required to perform community service hours under a sentence of a court or students may satisfy community service requirements or volunteer their services.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-123
(a) (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2) “Community association” means:
(i) A nonprofit association, corporation, or other organization that is:
1. Composed of residents of a community within which a nuisance is located;
2. Operated exclusively for the promotion of social welfare and general neighborhood improvement and enhancement; and
3. Exempt from taxation under § 501(c)(3) or (4) of the Internal Revenue Code; or
(ii) A nonprofit association, corporation, or other organization that is:
1. Composed of residents of a contiguous community that is defined by specific geographic boundaries, within which a nuisance is located;
2. Operated for the promotion of the welfare, improvement, and enhancement of that community; and
3. In good standing with the State Department of Assessments and Taxation.
(3) “Local code violation” means a violation under the following provisions of the Baltimore City Code as amended from time to time or under any applicable code relating to the following provisions incorporated by Baltimore City by reference:
(i) Nuisance control, waste control, and noise regulation titles of the Health Code of Baltimore City;
(ii) The public nuisance and neighborhood nuisance provisions under City Code Article 19, Police Ordinances;
(iii) City Code Article 23, Sanitation;
(iv) The Building, Fire, and Related Codes of Baltimore City; or
(v) The Zoning Code of Baltimore City.
(4) “Nuisance” means, within the boundaries of the community represented by the community association, an act or condition knowingly created, performed, or maintained on private property that constitutes a local code violation and that:
(i) Significantly affects other residents of the neighborhood; and
(ii) 1. Is injurious to public health, safety, or welfare of neighboring residents; or
2. Obstructs the reasonable use of other property in the neighborhood.
(b) This section only applies to a nuisance located within the boundaries of Baltimore City.
(c) (1) A community association may seek injunctive and other equitable relief in the circuit court for abatement of a nuisance upon showing:
(i) The notice requirements of this subsection have been satisfied; and
(ii) The nuisance has not been abated.
(2) (i) 1. An action may not be brought under this section until 60 days after the community association sends notice of the violation and of the community association’s intent to bring an action under this section by certified mail, return receipt requested, to the appropriate code enforcement agency.
2. If the appropriate code enforcement agency is the Baltimore City Department of Housing and Community Development, an action under this section may not be brought if the Department provides a written response to the community association within 60 days of receiving the notice that the property is part of an active code enforcement plan.
(ii) An action under this section may not be brought if the appropriate code enforcement agency has filed an action for equitable relief from the nuisance.
(3) (i) An action may not be brought under this section until 60 days after the community association sends notice to the tenant, if any, and the owner of record that a nuisance exists and that legal action may be taken if the nuisance is not abated.
(ii) The notice shall specify:
1. The nature of the alleged nuisance;
2. The date and time of day the nuisance was first discovered;
3. The location on the property where the nuisance is allegedly occurring; and
4. The relief sought in the action.
(iii) 1. The notice shall be provided to the tenant, if any, and the owner of record in the same manner as service of process in a civil in personam action under the Maryland Rules.
2. Adequate and sufficient notice may be given to the tenant, if any, and the owner of record by sending a copy of the notice by regular mail and posting a copy of the notice on the property where the nuisance is allegedly occurring, if notice sent by certified mail is:
A. Returned unclaimed or refused;
B. Designated by the post office to be undeliverable for any other reason; or
C. Signed for by a person other than the addressee.
(iv) In filing a suit under this section, an officer of the community association shall certify to the court:
1. What steps the community association has taken to satisfy the notice requirements under this subsection; and
2. That each condition precedent to the filing of an action under this section has been met.
(4) (i) An action may not be brought against an owner of residential rental property unless, prior to the giving of notice under subsection (c)(3)(i) of this section, a notice of violation relating to the nuisance has first been issued by an appropriate code enforcement agency.
(ii) In the case of a nuisance based on a housing or building code violation, other than a recurrent sanitation violation, relief may not be granted under this section unless a violation notice relating to the nuisance has been issued by the Department of Housing and Community Development and remains outstanding after a period of 75 days.
(5) (i) If a violation notice is an essential element of the action, a copy of the notice signed by an official of the appropriate code enforcement agency shall be prima facie evidence of the facts contained in the notice.
(ii) A notice of abatement issued by the appropriate code enforcement agency in regard to the violation notice shall be prima facie evidence that the plaintiff is not entitled to the relief requested.
(6) A proceeding under this section shall:
(i) Take precedence on the docket;
(ii) Be heard at the earliest practicable date; and
(iii) Be expedited in every way.
(d) A political subdivision of the State or any agency of a political subdivision may not be subject to any action brought under this section or an action resulting from an action brought under this section against a private property owner.
(e) (1) Subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, this section may not be construed as to abrogate any equitable or legal right or remedy otherwise available under the law to abate a nuisance.
(2) This section may not be construed as to grant standing for an action:
(i) Challenging any zoning application or approval;
(ii) In which the alleged nuisance consists of:
1. A condition relating to lead paint; or
2. An interior physical defect of a property;
(iii) Involving any violation of alcoholic beverages laws under the Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis Article; or
(iv) Involving any matter in which a certificate, license, permit, or registration is required or allowed under the Environment Article.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-124
(a) (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2) “Community association” means a Maryland nonprofit association, corporation, or other organization that is located exclusively in an area of the county that is outside of a municipal corporation and:
(i) Is comprised of at least 25% of adult residents of a local community consisting of 40 or more individual, contiguous households as defined by specific geographic boundaries in the bylaws or charter of the association;
(ii) Requires, as a condition of membership, the voluntary payment of monetary dues at least annually;
(iii) Is operated primarily for the promotion of social welfare and general neighborhood improvement and enhancement;
(iv) Has been in existence for at least 2 years when it files suit under this section;
(v) Is exempt from taxation under § 501(c)(3) or (4) of the Internal Revenue Code; and
(vi) In the case of a Maryland corporation, is in good standing.
(3) “Local code violation” means a violation under the following provisions of the Prince George’s County Code as amended from time to time or under any applicable code relating to the following provisions incorporated into the Prince George’s County Code by reference:
(i) Animal control regulations (§ 3–131 et seq.) and other rules, regulations, and standards (§ 3–175 et seq.) under Subtitle 3;
(ii) Building Code under Subtitle 4, Division 1;
(iii) Fire Prevention Code under Subtitle 11, Division 4;
(iv) Pest control provisions under Subtitle 12, Division 5;
(v) Housing Code, property standards and maintenance, and antilitter and weed ordinance, under Subtitle 13, Divisions 1, 7, and 9, respectively;
(vi) Sewage disposal nuisances under Subtitle 22, Division 3, Subdivision 3; and
(vii) Abandoned vehicles under Subtitle 26, Division 14.
(4) “Nuisance” means, within the boundaries of the community represented by the community association, an act or condition knowingly created, performed, or maintained on private property that constitutes a local code violation and that:
(i) Significantly affects other residents of the neighborhood;
(ii) Negatively impacts the value of neighboring property; and
(iii) 1. Is injurious to public health, safety, or welfare of neighboring residents; or
2. Obstructs the reasonable use of other property in the neighborhood.
(b) This section only applies to a nuisance located within the boundaries of Prince George’s County.
(c) (1) A community association may seek injunctive and other equitable relief in the circuit court for abatement of a nuisance upon showing:
(i) The notice requirements under paragraphs (2) and (3) of this subsection have been satisfied; and
(ii) The nuisance has not been abated.
(2) (i) An action may not be brought under this section based on a nuisance until 60 days after the community association gives notice of the violation and of the community association’s intent to bring an action under this section by certified mail, return receipt requested, to the applicable local enforcement agency.
(ii) An action under this section may not be brought if the applicable code enforcement agency has filed an action for equitable relief from the nuisance.
(3) (i) An action may not be brought under this section until 60 days after the tenant, if any, and owner of record receive notice from the community association that a nuisance exists and that legal action may be taken if the nuisance is not abated.
(ii) The notice shall specify:
1. The nature of the alleged nuisance;
2. The date and time of day the nuisance was first discovered;
3. The location on the property where the nuisance is allegedly occurring; and
4. The relief sought.
(iii) The notice shall be provided to the tenant, if any, and the owner of record in the same manner as service of process in a civil in personam action under the Maryland Rules.
(iv) In filing a suit under this section, an officer of the community association shall certify to the court:
1. What steps the community association has taken to satisfy the notice requirements under this subsection; and
2. That each condition precedent to the filing of an action under this section has been met.
(4) A proceeding under this section shall:
(i) Take precedence on the docket;
(ii) Be heard at the earliest practicable date; and
(iii) Be expedited in every way.
(d) A political subdivision of the State or any agency of a political subdivision may not be subject to any action brought under this section or an action resulting from an action brought under this section against a private property owner.
(e) (1) Subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, this section may not be construed to abrogate any equitable or legal right or remedy otherwise available under the law to abate a nuisance.
(2) This section may not be construed as granting standing for an action:
(i) Challenging any zoning application or approval;
(ii) In which the alleged nuisance consists of:
1. A condition relating to lead paint; or
2. An interior physical defect of a property;
(iii) Involving any violation of alcoholic beverages laws under the Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis Article; or
(iv) Involving any matter in which a certificate, license, permit, or registration is required or allowed under the Environment Article.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-125
(a) (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2) “Community association” means a Maryland nonprofit corporation that:
(i) Is comprised of at least 20% of the total number of households as members, with a minimum membership of 25 households, of a local community that consists of 40 or more individual households as defined by specific geographic boundaries in the bylaws or charter of the community association;
(ii) Requires, as a condition of membership, the payment of monetary dues at least annually;
(iii) Is operated primarily for the promotion of social welfare and general neighborhood improvement and enhancement;
(iv) Has been in existence for at least 1 year when it files suit under this section;
(v) 1. Is exempt from taxation under § 501(c)(3) or (4) of the Internal Revenue Code; or
2. Has been included for a period of at least 1 year prior to bringing an action under this section in the “Directory of Organizations in Baltimore County” that is published by the Baltimore County Public Library; and
(vi) Is in good standing.
(3) “Local code violation” means a violation under Title 22. “Nuisances” of the Baltimore County Code 1988.
(4) “Nuisance” means, within the boundaries of the community represented by the community association, an act or condition created, performed, or maintained on private property that constitutes a local code violation and that:
(i) Negatively impacts the well–being of other residents of the neighborhood; and
(ii) 1. Is injurious to public health, safety, or welfare of neighboring residents; or
2. Obstructs the reasonable use of other property in the neighborhood.
(b) This section only applies to a nuisance located within the boundaries of Baltimore County.
(c) (1) A community association may seek injunctive and other equitable relief in the Circuit Court for Baltimore County for abatement of a nuisance upon showing that:
(i) The notice requirements under paragraphs (2) and (3) of this subsection have been satisfied; and
(ii) The nuisance has not been abated.
(2) (i) An action may not be brought under this section based on a nuisance until 60 days after the community association gives notice of the violation and of the community association’s intent to bring an action under this section by certified mail, return receipt requested, to the County Code enforcement agency.
(ii) An action under this section may not be brought if the County Code enforcement agency has filed an action for equitable relief from the nuisance.
(3) (i) An action may not be brought under this section until 60 days after the tenant, if any, and owner of record receive notice by certified mail, return receipt requested, from the community association that a nuisance exists and that legal action may be taken if the nuisance is not abated.
(ii) The notice shall specify:
1. The nature of the alleged nuisance;
2. The date and time of day the nuisance was first documented;
3. The location on the property where the nuisance is allegedly occurring; and
4. The relief sought.
(iii) In filing a suit under this section, an officer of the community association shall certify to the court:
1. What steps the community association has taken to satisfy the notice requirements under this subsection; and
2. That each condition precedent to the filing of an action under this section has been met.
(4) The court shall determine in what amount and under what conditions, if any, a bond shall be filed by a community association in an action for relief under this section.
(d) A political subdivision of the State or any agency of a political subdivision is not subject to any action brought under this section or an action resulting from an action brought under this section against a private property owner.
(e) (1) Subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, this section may not be construed to abrogate any equitable or legal right or remedy otherwise available under the law to abate a nuisance.
(2) This section may not be construed as granting standing for an action:
(i) Challenging any zoning, development, special exception, or variance application or approval;
(ii) In which the alleged nuisance consists of:
1. A condition relating to lead paint;
2. An interior physical defect of a property, except in situations that present a threat to neighboring properties; or
3. A vacant dwelling that is maintained in a boarded condition, free from trash and debris, and secure against trespassers and weather entry;
(iii) Involving any violation of alcoholic beverages laws under the Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis Article; or
(iv) Involving any matter in which a certificate, license, permit, or registration is required or allowed under the Environment Article.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-125.1
§14–125.1.
(a) (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2) “Community association” means a Maryland nonprofit association, corporation, or other organization that:
(i) Is comprised of at least 20% of the total number of households as members of a local community that consists of 40 or more individual households as defined by specific geographic boundaries in the bylaws or charter of the community association;
(ii) Requires, as a condition of membership, the payment of monetary dues at least annually;
(iii) Is operated primarily for the promotion of social welfare and general neighborhood improvement and enhancement;
(iv) Has been in existence for at least 1 year when it files suit under this section;
(v) Is exempt from taxation under § 501(c)(3) or (4) of the Internal Revenue Code; and
(vi) Is in good standing.
(3) “Local code violation” means a violation under the following provisions of the Anne Arundel County Code or under any applicable code relating to the following provisions incorporated in the Anne Arundel County Code by reference:
(i) Article 11 – Crimes and Punishments;
(ii) Article 12 – Animal Control;
(iii) Article 14 – Environmental Health;
(iv) Article 16 – Licenses and Permits; and
(v) Article 22 – Housing Maintenance and Occupancy Code.
(4) “Nuisance” means:
(i) An act or condition knowingly created, performed, or maintained on private property that constitutes a local code violation and that:
1. Significantly affects other residents of the neighborhood;
2. Diminishes the value of neighboring property; and
3. A. Is injurious to public health, safety, or welfare of neighboring residents; or
B. Obstructs the reasonable use of other property in the neighborhood;
(ii) A property where the tenant, owner, or other occupant has been convicted of violations of § 10–201 or § 10–202 of the Criminal Law Article for conduct occurring on, in, or in relation to the property; or
(iii) A property to which police or other law enforcement agencies have responded to complaints or calls for service 10 or more times within any 30 day period.
(b) This section only applies to a nuisance located within the boundaries of Anne Arundel County.
(c) An action to abate a nuisance may be brought under this section and § 4–401 of the Courts Article by:
(1) The State’s Attorney for Anne Arundel County;
(2) The County Attorney for Anne Arundel County;
(3) A community association within whose boundaries the nuisance is located; or
(4) The City Attorney for the City of Annapolis.
(d) (1) A person specified in subsection (c) of this section may seek injunctive and other equitable relief in the District Court for abatement of a nuisance upon showing:
(i) The notice requirements under paragraphs (2) and (3) of this subsection have been satisfied; and
(ii) The nuisance has not been abated.
(2) (i) An action may not be brought under this section based on a nuisance until 60 days after the plaintiff gives notice of the violation and of the plaintiff’s intent to bring an action under this section by certified mail, return receipt requested, to the applicable local enforcement agency.
(ii) An action may not be brought under this section if the applicable code enforcement agency has filed an action for equitable relief from the nuisance.
(3) (i) An action may not be brought under this section until 60 days after the tenant, if any, and owner of record receive notice from the plaintiff that a nuisance exists and that legal action may be taken if the nuisance is not abated.
(ii) The notice shall specify:
1. The nature of the alleged nuisance;
2. The date and time of day the nuisance was first discovered;
3. The location on the property where the nuisance is allegedly occurring; and
4. The relief sought.
(iii) The notice shall be provided to the tenant, if any, and the owner of record in the same manner as service of process in a civil in personam action under the Maryland Rules.
(iv) 1. In addition to any service of process required by the Maryland Rules, the plaintiff shall cause to be posted in a conspicuous place on the property no later than 48 hours before the hearing the notice required under subsubparagraph 2 of this subparagraph.
2. The notice shall indicate:
A. The nature of the proceedings;
B. The time and place of the hearing; and
C. The name and telephone number of the person to contact for additional information.
(4) In filing a suit under this section, the plaintiff shall certify to the court:
(i) What steps the plaintiff has taken to satisfy the notice requirements under this subsection; and
(ii) That each condition precedent to the filing of an action under this section has been met.
(e) A political subdivision of the State or any agency of a political subdivision may not be subject to any action brought under this section or an action resulting from an action brought under this section against a private property owner.
(f) (1) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, and in addition to or as a component of any remedy ordered under subsection (d) of this section, the court, after a hearing, may order a tenant who knew or should have known of the existence of the nuisance to vacate the property within 72 hours.
(2) The court, after a hearing, may grant a judgment of restitution or the possession of rental property to the owner if:
(i) The owner and tenant are parties to the action; and
(ii) A tenant has failed to obey an order under subsection (d) of this section or paragraph (1) of this subsection.
(3) If the court orders restitution of the possession of the property under paragraph (2) of this subsection, the court shall immediately issue its warrant to the sheriff or constable commanding execution of the warrant within 5 days after issuance of the warrant.
(4) In addition to or as a part of any injunction, restraining order, or other relief ordered, the court may order the owner of the property to submit for court approval a plan of correction to ensure, to the extent reasonably possible, that the property will not again be used for a nuisance if:
(i) The owner is a party to the action; and
(ii) The owner knew or should have known of the existence of the nuisance.
(5) If an owner fails to comply with an order to abate a nuisance, after a hearing the court may, in addition to any other relief granted, order that the property be demolished if the property is unfit for habitation and the estimated cost of rehabilitation significantly exceeds the estimated market value of the property after rehabilitation.
(g) (1) Subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, this section may not be construed to abrogate any equitable or legal right or remedy otherwise available under the law to abate a nuisance.
(2) This section may not be construed as granting standing for an action:
(i) Challenging any zoning application or approval;
(ii) In which the alleged nuisance consists of:
1. A condition relating to lead paint; or
2. An interior physical defect of a property;
(iii) Involving any violation of alcoholic beverages laws under the Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis Article; or
(iv) Involving any matter in which a certificate, license, permit, or registration is required or allowed under the Environment Article.
(h) Provisions of this article or public local laws applicable to actions between a landlord and a tenant are not applicable to actions brought against a landlord or a tenant under this section.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-125.2
§14–125.2.
(a) (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2) “Local code violation” means a violation under the following provisions of the Harford County Code as amended from time to time or under any applicable code relating to the following provisions incorporated in the Harford County Code by reference, or comparable provisions within the codes of the incorporated municipalities of Aberdeen, Havre de Grace, and Bel Air:
(i) Chapter 64 – Animals;
(ii) Chapter 82 – Building Construction;
(iii) Chapter 84 – Buildings, General;
(iv) Chapter 109 – Environmental Control;
(v) Chapter 157 – Licenses and Permits;
(vi) Chapter 162 – Livability Code;
(vii) Chapter 173 – Mobile Homes and Trailers; and
(viii) Chapter 179 – Nuisances and Public Health.
(3) “Nuisance” means:
(i) An act or condition created, performed, or maintained on private property that constitutes a local code violation and that:
1. Negatively impacts the well–being of other residents; and
2. A. Is injurious to public health, safety, or welfare; or
B. Obstructs the reasonable use of property;
(ii) A property where the tenant, owner, or other occupant has been convicted of violations of § 10–201 or § 10–202 of the Criminal Law Article for conduct occurring on, in, or in relation to the property;
(iii) A property to which police or other law enforcement agencies have responded to complaints or calls for service 4 or more times within any 30–day period and that:
1. Negatively impacts the well–being of other residents; and
2. A. Is injurious to public health, safety, or welfare; or
B. Obstructs the reasonable use of property;
(iv) A property where the tenant, owner, or other occupant has been convicted of violations of any criminal law occurring on, in, or in relation to the property and is related to the activities of a criminal organization as defined in § 9–801 of the Criminal Law Article; or
(v) A building, structure, dwelling, dwelling unit, or accessory structure that:
1. Contains defects due to inadequate maintenance, obsolescence, or abandonment that increase the hazard of fire, accident, or other calamity; or
2. Is unsafe, unsanitary, dangerous, or detrimental to the health, safety, or general welfare of the community due to lack of maintenance, inadequate ventilation, light, sanitary facilities, or other conditions.
(b) This section only applies to a nuisance located within the boundaries of Harford County.
(c) An action to abate a nuisance may be brought under this section and § 4–401 of the Courts Article by the State’s Attorney for Harford County.
(d) (1) The State’s Attorney may seek injunctive and other equitable relief in the District Court for abatement of a nuisance upon showing:
(i) The notice requirements under paragraphs (2) and (3) of this subsection have been satisfied; and
(ii) The nuisance has not been abated.
(2) (i) An action may not be brought under this section based on a nuisance until 60 days after the State’s Attorney gives notice of the violation and of the State’s Attorney’s intent to bring an action under this section by certified mail, return receipt requested, to the applicable local enforcement agency.
(ii) An action may not be brought under this section if the applicable code enforcement agency has filed an action for equitable relief from the nuisance.
(3) (i) An action may not be brought under this section until 60 days after the tenant, if any, and owner of record receive notice from the State’s Attorney that a nuisance exists and that legal action may be taken if the nuisance is not abated.
(ii) The notice shall specify:
1. The nature of the alleged nuisance;
2. The date and time of day the nuisance was first discovered;
3. The location on the property where the nuisance is allegedly occurring; and
4. The relief sought.
(iii) The notice shall indicate:
1. The nature of the proceedings;
2. The time and place of the hearing; and
3. The name and telephone number of the person to contact for additional information.
(4) In filing a suit under this section, the State’s Attorney shall certify to the court:
(i) What steps the State’s Attorney has taken to satisfy the notice requirements under this subsection; and
(ii) That each condition precedent to the filing of an action under this section has been met.
(e) A political subdivision of the State or any agency of a political subdivision may not be subject to any action brought under this section or an action resulting from an action brought under this section against a private property owner.
(f) (1) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, and in addition to or as a component of any remedy ordered under subsection (d) of this section, the court, after a hearing, may order a tenant who knew or should have known of the existence of the nuisance to vacate the property within 72 hours.
(2) The court, after a hearing, may grant a judgment of restitution or the possession of rental property to the owner if:
(i) The owner and tenant are parties to the action; and
(ii) A tenant has failed to obey an order under subsection (d) of this section or paragraph (1) of this subsection.
(3) If the court orders restitution or the possession of the property under paragraph (2) of this subsection, the court shall immediately issue its warrant to the sheriff or constable commanding execution of the warrant within 5 days after issuance of the warrant.
(4) In addition to or as a part of any injunction, restraining order, or other relief ordered, the court may order the owner of the property to submit for court approval a plan of correction to ensure, to the extent reasonably possible, that the property will not again be used for a nuisance if:
(i) The owner is a party to the action; and
(ii) The owner knew or should have known of the existence of the nuisance.
(5) If an owner fails to comply with an order to abate a nuisance, after a hearing, the court may, in addition to any other relief granted, order that the property be demolished if the property is unfit for habitation and the estimated cost of rehabilitation significantly exceeds the estimated market value of the property after rehabilitation.
(g) This section may not be construed to abrogate any equitable or legal right or remedy otherwise available under the law to abate a nuisance.
(h) Provisions of this article or public local laws applicable to actions between a landlord and a tenant are not applicable to actions brought against a landlord or a tenant under this section.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-126
(a) (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2) “Emergency services” includes fire, rescue, and ambulance services and a mobile crisis team as defined in § 10–1401 of the Health – General Article.
(3) “Governing body” has the meaning stated in § 1–101 of the Local Government Article.
(4) “Municipality” has the meaning stated in § 1–101 of the Local Government Article.
(5) “Rental license” means any certificate, license, or permit required to rent residential real property issued by a county or a municipality.
(6) (i) “Short–term rental unit” means a residential dwelling unit or a portion of the unit used to provide housing for less than 31 consecutive days.
(ii) “Short–term rental unit” does not include a hotel or motel, boarding house, group residential facility for students, fraternity or sorority house, or similar housing.
(b) This section does not apply to a local law or ordinance governing:
(1) The installation and use of residential security alarm systems;
(2) The physical condition, sanitation, maintenance, or repair of real property, including vacant buildings;
(3) Parking enforcement;
(4) Calls to law enforcement concerning social gatherings or excessive noise that do not involve an offense set forth in the Criminal Law Article and are:
(i) Made with the intent to harass another; or
(ii) Knowingly false, as a whole or in material part; or
(5) Short–term rental units.
(c) (1) The governing body of a county or a municipality may not enact or enforce a local law or ordinance that:
(i) Establishes a threshold of requests to summon law enforcement or emergency services to a residential property as grounds for designating a property as a nuisance; or
(ii) Penalizes or authorizes a penalty against an operator, an owner, an owner–occupant, or a tenant for:
1. The act of summoning law enforcement or emergency services to a residential property; or
2. The actions of another individual to summon the assistance of law enforcement or emergency services to a residential property.
(2) There is a presumption that a local law or ordinance relating to summoning law enforcement or emergency services to a residential property is prohibited under paragraph (1)(ii) of this subsection if the local law or ordinance authorizes or requires:
(i) The assessment of a monetary penalty or fine on an operator, an owner, an owner–occupant, or a tenant;
(ii) The use of an action for repossession of a dwelling unit from a tenant or termination or nonrenewal of a tenant’s lease; or
(iii) The revocation, suspension, or nonrenewal of a rental license.
(d) An operator, an owner, an owner–occupant, or a tenant may raise the issue that a local law or ordinance is prohibited under subsection (c) of this section:
(1) As a defense to an action to enforce the local law or ordinance; or
(2) As an affirmative claim for damages resulting from the enforcement of the law or ordinance.
(e) If in any proceeding the court finds in favor of the operator, owner, owner–occupant, or tenant, the court may enter a judgment against the county or municipality attempting to enforce the prohibited local law or ordinance and award the operator, owner, owner–occupant, or tenant:
(1) Reasonable damages;
(2) Reasonable attorney’s fees;
(3) Court costs;
(4) Reinstatement of a rental license; and
(5) Other relief as deemed appropriate by the court.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-127
(a) (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2) “Consideration” includes:
(i) A fee;
(ii) Compensation;
(iii) A gift, except promotional or advertising materials for general distribution;
(iv) A thing of value;
(v) A rebate;
(vi) A loan; or
(vii) An advancement of a commission or deposit money.
(3) “License” has the meaning stated in § 10–101 of the Insurance Article.
(4) “Residential real estate transaction” means a transaction involving a federally related mortgage loan as defined in 12 U.S.C. § 2602 and 12 C.F.R. § 1024.2.
(5) “Title insurance producer” has the meaning stated in § 10–101 of the Insurance Article.
(b) This section does not prohibit:
(1) The payment of a commission to a title insurance producer who has a license; or
(2) The referral of a real estate settlement business or a professional fee arrangement between attorneys, if the referral or professional fee arrangement does not violate § 17–605 of the Business Occupations and Professions Article.
(c) (1) A person who has a connection with the settlement of real estate transactions involving land in the State may not pay to or receive from another any consideration to solicit, obtain, retain, or arrange real estate settlement business.
(2) A person may not be considered to be in violation of paragraph (1) of this subsection solely because that person is a participant in an affiliated business arrangement, as defined in 12 U.S.C. § 2602, and receives consideration as a result of that participation as long as that person complies with 12 U.S.C. § 2607(c)(4), 12 C.F.R. § 1024.15, and Appendix D to 12 C.F.R. Part 1024.
(d) A person who offers settlement services in connection with residential real estate transactions involving land in the State shall comply with 12 U.S.C. § 2607(c)(4), 12 C.F.R. § 1024.15, and Appendix D to 12 C.F.R. Part 1024, as applicable, regarding disclosures of affiliated business arrangements, as defined in 12 U.S.C. § 2602.
(e) A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 6 months or a fine not exceeding $1,000 or both.
(f) Each violation of this section is a separate violation.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-128
(a) The provisions of this section shall apply to any residential property, including property that is subject to the provisions of:
(1) Title 8, Title 8A, Title 11, Title 11A, or Title 11B of this article; or
(2) Title 5, Subtitle 6B of the Corporations and Associations Article.
(b) Regardless of the terms of any contract, deed, covenant, restriction, instrument, declaration, rule, bylaw, lease agreement, rental agreement, or any other document concerning the display of flags or decorations by a homeowner or tenant on residential property, a homeowner or tenant may not be prohibited from displaying on the premises of the property in which the homeowner or tenant is entitled to reside one portable, removable flag of the United States in a respectful manner, consistent with 4 U.S.C. §§ 4 through 10, as amended, and subject to reasonable rules and regulations adopted pursuant to subsection (d) of this section.
(c) The terms of any contract, deed, covenant, restriction, instrument, declaration, rule, bylaw, lease agreement, rental agreement, or any other document concerning the display of flags or decorations by a homeowner or tenant on residential property may not prohibit or unduly restrict the right of a homeowner or tenant to display on the premises of the property in which the homeowner or tenant is entitled to reside one portable, removable flag of the United States in a respectful manner, consistent with 4 U.S.C. §§ 4 through 10, as amended, and subject to reasonable rules and regulations adopted under subsection (d) of this section.
(d) (1) Subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, the board of directors of a condominium, homeowners association, or housing cooperative, or a landlord may adopt reasonable rules and regulations regarding the placement and manner of display of the flag of the United States and a flagpole used to display the flag of the United States on the premises of the property in which the homeowner or tenant is entitled to reside.
(2) Before adopting any rules or regulations under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the board of directors of the condominium, homeowners association, or housing cooperative, or the landlord shall:
(i) Hold an open meeting on the proposed rules and regulations for the purpose of providing affected homeowners and tenants an opportunity to be heard; and
(ii) Provide advance notice of the time and place of the open meeting by publishing the notice in a community newsletter, on a community bulletin board, by means provided in the documents governing the condominium, homeowners association, or housing cooperative, or in the lease, or by other means reasonably calculated to inform the affected homeowners and tenants.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-130
(a) (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2) (i) “Single–family property” includes:
1. A single–family detached home;
2. A townhouse; and
3. A property that is subject to:
A. Title 11 of this article;
B. Title 11B of this article; or
C. Title 5, Subtitle 6B of the Corporations and Associations Article.
(ii) “Single–family property” does not include property that contains more than four dwelling units.
(3) “Townhouse” means a single–family dwelling unit that is constructed in a horizontal series of attached units with property lines separating the units.
(b) This section does not apply to a restriction concerning the installation or use of clotheslines on historic property that is listed in, or determined by the Director of the Maryland Historical Trust to be eligible for inclusion in, the Maryland Register of Historic Properties.
(c) A contract, deed, covenant, restriction, instrument, declaration, rule, bylaw, lease agreement, rental agreement, or any other document concerning the installation or use of clotheslines on single–family property may not prohibit a homeowner or tenant from installing or using clotheslines on single–family property.
(d) Notwithstanding any other provision of law or the terms of any contract, deed, covenant, restriction, instrument, declaration, rule, bylaw, lease agreement, rental agreement, or any other document concerning the installation or use of clotheslines on single–family property, a homeowner or tenant may not be prohibited from installing or using clotheslines on single–family property.
(e) This section does not prohibit reasonable restrictions on:
(1) The dimensions, placement, or appearance of clotheslines for the purpose of protecting aesthetic values; or
(2) The placement of clotheslines for the purpose of protecting persons or property in the event of fire or other emergencies.
(f) Before adopting any restriction concerning the installation or use of clotheslines on single–family property, a landlord or the governing body of a condominium, homeowners association, or housing cooperative shall:
(1) Hold an open meeting on the proposed restriction for the purpose of providing affected homeowners and tenants an opportunity to be heard; and
(2) Provide advance notice of the time and place of the open meeting by publishing the notice:
(i) In a community newsletter;
(ii) On a community bulletin board;
(iii) By means provided in the lease or governing documents of the condominium, homeowners association, or housing cooperative; or
(iv) By other means reasonably calculated to inform the affected homeowners and tenants.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-131
(a) (1) In this section the following terms have the meanings indicated.
(2) “Community association” means:
(i) A condominium council of unit owners organized under Title 11, Subtitle 1 of this article;
(ii) A homeowners association organized under Title 11B of this article; or
(iii) A cooperative housing corporation organized under Title 5, Subtitle 6B of the Corporations and Associations Article.
(3) “Community association management” means to manage the common property and services of a community association with the authority of the community association in its business, legal, financial, or other transactions with association members and nonmembers for a fee, commission, or other valuable consideration, including:
(i) Collecting monthly assessments;
(ii) Preparing budgets, financial statements, or other financial reports;
(iii) Negotiating contracts or otherwise coordinating or arranging for services or the purchase of property or goods for or on behalf of a community association;
(iv) Executing the resolutions and decisions of a community association and assisting the governing body of a community association and association members in complying with laws, contracts, covenants, rules, and bylaws;
(v) Managing the operation and maintenance of community–owned properties, including community centers, pools, golf courses, and parking areas; and
(vi) Arranging, conducting, or coordinating meetings of a community association or the governing body of an association.
(4) “Office” means the Prince George’s County Office of Community Relations.
(5) “Owner” means:
(i) A member of a cooperative housing corporation;
(ii) A unit owner of a condominium; or
(iii) A lot owner of a homeowners association.
(6) “Registry” means the Community Association Registry.
(b) This section applies only in Prince George’s County.
(c) On or after January 1, 2011, the Office shall establish a Registry.
(d) (1) Any entity, including a sole proprietorship, that provides community association management services for community associations located in the county shall register with the Registry and renew its registration by January 31 of each year.
(2) Each community association located in the county shall register with the Registry and renew its registration by January 31 each year.
(e) (1) The Office shall:
(i) Provide the registration form; and
(ii) Collect a fee from each entity that registers under this section.
(2) (i) The County Executive shall establish the annual fee charged, which shall be in an amount sufficient to fund the cost to establish and administer the administrative hearing process by the Office.
(ii) The fee may include:
1. A per–unit charge to community associations to renew registration;
2. Fees for services relating to the administrative hearing process that seek to recover the actual cost of the services; and
3. A per–unit charge to developers when the documents for the community association are recorded.
(iii) Fees collected in accordance with this section shall be used to cover the cost of the administrative hearing process provided through the county for disputes between a community association and an owner, including costs for any technical assistance provided by the Office and the Commission on Common Ownership Communities in Prince George’s County.
(f) The registration form shall include:
(1) The name, address, and telephone number of the entity providing community association management services if applicable;
(2) The names, titles, and business telephone numbers of the principal officers of the entity;
(3) The designated contact person of the entity, including name, address, title, telephone number, and electronic mail address;
(4) The length of time the entity has been in existence and the length of time the entity has provided community association management services; and
(5) A listing of all community associations in the county as of December 31 of the previous year for which the entity provided community association management services.
(g) In addition to the annual registration fee established under this section, the governing body of Prince George’s County may establish the following reasonable fees in amounts sufficient to cover costs identified in subsection (e)(2)(iii) of this section:
(1) Fees for services relating to the administrative hearing process that seek to recover the actual cost of the services; and
(2) A per–unit charge to developers when documents are recorded.
(h) The governing body of a community association shall be responsible for compliance with this section.
(i) The Office may make any information received under this section available to the public, subject to the provisions of the Maryland Public Information Act.
(j) A person who fails to register or who makes a false statement on a registration form may not file a dispute under the administrative hearings process provided through the county until the person registers as required by this section.
(k) A person who commits a willful violation of this section or who causes a person to commit a willful violation of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $1,000.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-132
(a) In this section, “wrongful detainer” means to hold possession of real property without the right of possession.
(b) This section does not apply if:
(1) The person in actual possession of the property has been granted possession under a court order;
(2) A remedy is available under Title 8 of this article; or
(3) Any other exclusive means to recover possession is provided by statute or rule.
(c) A person may not hold possession of property unless the person is entitled to possession of the property under the law.
(d) (1) If a person violates subsection (c) of this section, a person claiming possession may make complaint in writing to the District Court of the county in which the property is located.
(2) (i) On receipt of a complaint under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the court shall summons immediately the person in possession to appear before the court on the day specified in the summons to show cause, if any, why restitution of the possession of the property to the person filing the complaint should not be made.
(ii) A hearing scheduled under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph shall be held not more than 10 business days after the complaint is filed under paragraph (1) of this subsection.
(3) If, for any reason, the person in actual possession cannot be found after two good faith efforts on different days, the person authorized to serve process by the Maryland Rules shall:
(i) File an affidavit with the court describing the good faith efforts to serve the person in actual possession;
(ii) Mail a copy of the complaint by certified mail, return receipt requested, and first–class mail to the last known address of the person in actual possession and, if different, to the address of the residential property subject to the complaint; and
(iii) Affix an attested copy of the summons conspicuously on the property.
(4) If notice of the summons is sent to the person in possession in accordance with paragraph (3) of this subsection, the notice shall constitute sufficient service to support restitution of possession.
(5) Service shall be made under paragraphs (3) and (4) of this subsection within 4 business days after the complaint is filed under paragraph (1) of this subsection.
(e) A counterclaim or cross–claim may not be filed in an action brought under this section.
(f) (1) If the court determines that the complainant is legally entitled to possession, the court shall:
(i) Give judgment for restitution of the possession of the property to the complainant; and
(ii) Issue its warrant to the sheriff or constable commanding the sheriff or constable to deliver possession to the complainant.
(2) The court may also give judgment in favor of the complainant for damages due to the wrongful detainer and for court costs and attorney fees if:
(i) The complainant claimed damages in the complaint; and
(ii) The court finds that:
1. The person in actual possession was personally served with the summons; or
2. There was service of process or submission to the jurisdiction of the court as would support a judgment in contract or tort.
(3) A person in actual possession who is not personally served with a summons is not subject to the personal jurisdiction of the District Court if the person appears in response to the summons and prior to the time that evidence is taken by the court and asserts that the appearance is only for the purpose of defending an in rem action.
(g) Subject to § 8–118.1 of this article, a party to a wrongful detainer action brought in the District Court under this section may demand a trial by jury in accordance with Title 8, Subtitle 6 of this article.
(h) (1) Not later than 10 days from the entry of the judgment of the District Court, either party may appeal to the circuit court for the county in which the property is located.
(2) The person in actual possession of the property may retain possession until the determination of the appeal if the person:
(i) Files with the court an affidavit that the appeal is not taken for delay; and
(ii) 1. Files sufficient bond with one or more securities conditioned on diligent prosecution of the appeal; or
2. Pays to the complainant or into the appellate court:
A. The fair rental value of the property for the entire period of possession up to the date of judgment;
B. All court costs in the case;
C. All losses or damages other than the fair rental value of the property up to the day of judgment that the court determined to be due because of the detention of possession; and
D. The fair rental value of the property during the pendency of the appeal.
(3) On application of either party, the court shall set a hearing date for the appeal that is not less than 5 days or more than 15 days after the application for appeal.
(4) Notice of the order for a hearing shall be served on the parties or the parties’ counsels not less than 5 days before the hearing.
(i) If the judgment of the circuit court shall be in favor of the person claiming possession, a warrant shall be issued by the court to the sheriff, who shall proceed immediately to execute the warrant.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-133
(a) (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2) “Complaint” means a complaint filed under Title 7, Subtitle 1 of this article, § 8–401, § 8–402, § 8–402.1, or § 8–402.2 of this article, or § 14–132 of this subtitle.
(3) “Department” means the Department of Housing and Community Development.
(4) “Eviction data” means, for each premises subject to a warrant, regardless of whether an eviction occurs, the following information:
(i) The name of the landlord of the premises;
(ii) The street address, city, county, and zip code of the premises subject to the warrant;
(iii) The date of filing of the complaint and the type of action;
(iv) For a hearing or trial relating to the complaint:
1. Whether the tenant appeared at the hearing or trial; and
2. Whether the tenant had legal representation;
(v) The date of entry of a judgment for possession;
(vi) If applicable, whether the right of redemption was foreclosed at the time of the entry of judgment for possession;
(vii) The date of issuance of the warrant; and
(viii) The outcome of the issuance of the warrant, including:
1. An eviction executed by a sheriff’s office;
2. The cancellation of the warrant;
3. The expiration of the warrant; and
4. Any other outcome.
(5) “Publicly disclosable data” means data that is not required to be withheld from disclosure under the Public Information Act or any other law.
(6) “Warrant” means a warrant of restitution, a warrant issued to a sheriff or constable commanding a tenant to deliver possession to a landlord, or a writ of possession, issued as the result of a judgment for possession of residential property.
(b) (1) Each month, the Judiciary shall collect, compile, and share complete eviction data from the immediately preceding month with the Department in the manner required by the Department.
(2) If the Judiciary discovers that eviction data shared with the Department for any collection period is inaccurate or incomplete, the Judiciary shall notify the Department of the inaccuracy or incompleteness and provide the Department with updated eviction data.
(c) The Department shall:
(1) Organize and format the data received under subsection (b) of this section;
(2) Publish the publicly disclosable data in a data dashboard on the Department’s website and update the dashboard monthly;
(3) Make the publicly disclosable data available for download in open data sets that allow automated searching, spatial analysis, visualization, and processing, on request by:
(i) A State agency;
(ii) An agency of a county or municipal corporation; or
(iii) An academic institution located in the State; and
(4) On or before August 31, 2023, and each year thereafter, submit a report on the eviction data to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of the State Government Article, the General Assembly.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-201
(a) In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated unless the context requires otherwise.
(b) (1) “Contract” means a real covenant running with the land or a contract recorded among the land records of a county or Baltimore City.
(2) “Contract” includes a:
(i) Declaration or bylaws recorded under the provisions of the Maryland Condominium Act or the Maryland Real Estate Time–Sharing Act; or
(ii) Regulated sustainable energy contract recorded under the provisions of Title 9, Subtitle 20D of the State Government Article.
(c) (1) “Damages” means unpaid sums due under a contract, plus interest accruing on the unpaid sums due under a contract or as provided by law, including fines levied under the Maryland Condominium Act or the Maryland Real Estate Time-Sharing Act.
(2) “Damages” does not include consequential or punitive damages.
(d) “Lien” means a lien created under this subtitle.
(e) “Party” means any person who:
(1) Is a signatory to a contract;
(2) Is described in a contract as having the benefit of any provision of the contract; or
(3) Owns property subject to the provisions of a contract.
(f) “Statement of lien” means the statement described under § 14-203(j) of this subtitle.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-202
(a) A lien on property may be created by a contract and enforced under this subtitle if:
(1) The contract expressly provides for the creation of a lien; and
(2) The contract expressly describes:
(i) The party entitled to establish and enforce the lien; and
(ii) The property against which the lien may be imposed.
(b) A lien may only secure the payment of:
(1) Damages;
(2) Costs of collection;
(3) Late charges permitted by law; and
(4) Attorney’s fees provided for in a contract or awarded by a court for breach of a contract.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-203
(a) (1) A party seeking to create a lien as the result of a breach of contract shall, within 2 years of a breach of contract, give written notice to the party against whose property the lien is intended to be imposed.
(2) Except as provided in paragraph (3) of this subsection, notice under this subsection shall be served by:
(i) Certified or registered mail, return receipt requested, addressed to the owner of the property against which the lien is sought to be imposed at the owner’s last known address; or
(ii) Personal delivery to the owner by the party seeking a lien or the party’s agent.
(3) If a party seeking to create a lien is unable to serve an owner under paragraph (2) of this subsection, notice under this subsection shall be served by:
(i) The mailing of a notice to the owner’s last known address; and
(ii) Posting notice in a conspicuous manner on the property by the party seeking to create a lien or the party’s agent in the presence of a competent witness. In the instance of a contractual lien on a building, the notice shall be posted in a conspicuous manner on the door or other front part of the building.
(b) A notice under subsection (a) of this section shall include:
(1) The name and address of the party seeking to create the lien;
(2) A statement of intent to create a lien;
(3) An identification of the contract;
(4) The nature of the alleged breach;
(5) The amount of alleged damages;
(6) A description of the property against which the lien is intended to be imposed sufficient to identify the property, and stating the county or counties in which the property is located; and
(7) A statement that the party against whose property the lien is intended to be imposed has the right to a hearing under subsection (c) of this section.
(c) (1) A party to whom notice is given under subsection (a) of this section may, within 30 days after the notice is served on the party, file a complaint in the circuit court for the county in which any part of the property is located to determine whether probable cause exists for the establishment of a lien.
(2) A complaint filed under this subsection shall include:
(i) The name of the complainant and the name of the party seeking to establish the lien;
(ii) A copy of the notice served under subsection (a) of this section; and
(iii) An affidavit containing a statement of facts that would preclude establishment of the lien for the damages alleged in the notice.
(3) A party filing a complaint under this subsection may request a hearing at which any party may appear to present evidence.
(d) If a complaint is filed, the party seeking to establish the lien has the burden of proof.
(e) The clerk of the circuit court shall docket the proceedings under this section, and all process shall issue out of and all pleadings shall be filed in a single action.
(f) Before any hearing held under subsection (c) of this section, the party seeking to establish a lien may supplement, by means of an affidavit, any information contained in the notice given under subsection (a) of this section.
(g) (1) If a complaint is filed under subsection (c) of this section, the court shall review any pleadings filed, including any supplementary affidavit filed under subsection (f) of this section, and shall conduct a hearing if requested under subsection (c)(3) of this section.
(2) If the court determines that probable cause exists to establish a lien, it shall order the lien imposed.
(3) The order to impose a lien shall state that the owner of the property against which the lien is imposed may file a bond of a specified amount to have the lien against the property removed.
(h) (1) If the court orders a lien to be imposed under subsection (g) of this section, or if the owner of the property against which a lien is intended to be imposed fails to file a complaint under subsection (c) of this section the party seeking to create the lien may file a statement of lien among the land records of each county in which any portion of the property is located.
(2) The party seeking to create the lien may file the lien statement in the county land records:
(i) If a complaint was filed under subsection (c) of this section, 30 days after the date of the court order allowing the creation of the lien; or
(ii) If a complaint was not filed under subsection (c) of this section, 30 days after the owner was served under subsection (a)(2) or (3) of this section.
(3) Unless the party seeking to create the lien and the owner agree otherwise, if the party seeking to create the lien fails to file the lien statement within 90 days after the expiration of the applicable time period described in paragraph (2) of this subsection, the party seeking to create the lien may:
(i) Not file the lien statement in the county land records; and
(ii) File for a new lien by complying with the requirements of subsections (a) through (h) of this section.
(4) A lien imposed under this subtitle has priority from the date the statement of lien is filed.
(5) Until an order imposing a lien is entered by the court, the owner of the property against which the lien is imposed may have the lien removed at any time by filing with the clerk of the circuit court a bond in the amount specified by the court under subsection (g)(3) of this section.
(i) (1) Until an order is entered by the court either establishing or denying a lien, the action shall proceed to trial on any matter at issue.
(2) The court may award costs and reasonable attorney’s fees to any party under this subtitle.
(j) (1) Subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, a statement of lien is sufficient for purposes of this subtitle if it is in substantially the following form:
STATEMENT OF LIEN
This is to certify that the property described as __________ is subject to a lien under Title 14, Subtitle 2 of the Real Property Article, Maryland Annotated Code, in the amount of $__________. The property is owned by ____________________.
I hereby affirm under the penalty of perjury that notice was given under § 14–203(a) of the Real Property Article, and that the information contained in the foregoing statement of lien is true and correct to the best of my knowledge, information, and belief.
______________________________
(name of party claiming lien)
(2) (i) This paragraph applies only to a lien that is subject to § 11–110(f) or § 11B–117(c) of this article.
(ii) In addition to satisfying the requirements of paragraph (1) of this subsection, a statement of lien is sufficient for purposes of this subtitle if the statement includes specific information about the amount of the regular monthly assessments, or the equivalent of the regular monthly assessments, for common expenses in substantially the following form:
The amount of the regular monthly assessments, or the equivalent of the regular monthly assessments, for common expenses, that is the basis of the priority portion of this lien as provided in § 11–110(f) or § 11B–117(c) of the Real Property Article, is $_________. This sum represents ________ months of unpaid regular assessments, at $________ per month.
(k) If an order is entered under subsection (i) of this section denying a lien, or if a bond is filed under subsection (h) of this section, the clerk of the circuit court shall enter a notation in the land records releasing the lien.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-203.1
§14–203.1.
(a) (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2) (i) “Medical debt” means a debt owed by a consumer to a person whose primary business is providing medical services, products, or devices, or to the person’s agent or assignee, for the provision of the medical services, products, or devices.
(ii) “Medical debt” does not include debt charged to a credit card unless the credit card is issued under an open–end or closed–end credit plan offered solely for the payment of health care services.
(3) “Owner–occupied residential property” has the meaning stated in § 7–105.1 of this article.
(b) A lien on owner–occupied residential property may not be created by contract or as a result of a breach of contract for the payment of medical debt.
(c) If a lien is created in violation of this section, the court shall remove the lien.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-204
(a) Except as provided in subsection (d) of this section, a lien may be enforced and foreclosed by the party who obtained the lien in the same manner, and subject to the same requirements, as the foreclosure of mortgages or deeds of trust on property in this State containing a power of sale or an assent to a decree.
(b) If the owner of property subject to a lien is personally liable for alleged damages, suit for any deficiency following foreclosure may be maintained in the same proceeding, and suit for a monetary judgment for unpaid damages may be maintained without waiving any lien securing the same.
(c) Any action to foreclose a lien shall be brought within 12 years following recordation of the statement of lien.
(d) (1) (i) In this subsection the following words have the meanings indicated.
(ii) “Common ownership community” means:
1. A condominium as defined in § 11–101 of this article; or
2. A homeowners association as defined in § 11B–101 of this article.
(iii) “Governing body” means a person who has authority to enforce the declaration, articles of incorporation, bylaws, rules, or regulations of a common ownership community.
(2) Notwithstanding the declaration, articles of incorporation, bylaws, rules, or regulations of a common ownership community, a governing body may foreclose on a lien against a unit owner or lot owner only if the damages secured by the lien:
(i) Consist of:
1. Delinquent periodic assessments or special assessments and any interest; and
2. Reasonable costs and attorney’s fees directly related to the filing of the lien that do not exceed the amount of the delinquent assessments, excluding any interest; and
(ii) Do not include fines imposed by the governing body or attorney’s fees or costs related to recovering the fines.
(3) This subsection does not preclude a governing body from using any other means to enforce a lien against a unit owner or lot owner.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-205
The provisions of this subtitle do not apply to land installment contracts or to deeds of trust or mortgages on property in this State.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-206
This subtitle may be cited as the Maryland Contract Lien Act.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-301
(a) In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated unless the context requires otherwise.
(b) “Broker” means:
(1) An individual licensed as, or otherwise authorized to act as, a real estate broker under Title 17 of the Business Occupations and Professions Article; or
(2) A corporation or partnership authorized to provide real estate brokerage services under Title 17 of the Business Occupations and Professions Article.
(c) “Broker’s lien” means a lien established in accordance with this subtitle.
(d) “Claimant” means a broker claiming a broker’s lien under this subtitle.
(e) “Commercial lease” means a lease of building floor space intended to be used by the tenant for a nonresidential use whether or not the lease expressly sets forth a use.
(f) (1) “Commercial leasing brokerage agreement” or “brokerage agreement” means a written agreement between a broker and the owner of commercial property that provides for the payment of a commercial leasing commission by the owner to the broker for services in obtaining a commercial tenant regardless as to whether the broker acted as the agent for the owner or the commercial tenant.
(2) “Commercial leasing brokerage agreement” or “brokerage agreement” includes a written unilateral offer from an owner of commercial property to one or more brokers, including the broker claiming a lien under this subtitle.
(g) “Commercial leasing commission” or “commission” means the compensation payable by the owner of commercial property to a broker for obtaining a commercial tenant under a commercial leasing brokerage agreement.
(h) “Commercial property” means land, and any improvements on the land, used or intended to be used for a nonresidential purpose.
(i) “Commercial tenant” means a tenant under a commercial lease.
(j) “Lien property” means the commercial property against which a broker’s lien is claimed or against which a broker’s lien has attached under this subtitle.
(k) “Owner” means the owner of the commercial property.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-302
(a) If a broker is not paid a commission according to the terms of a commercial leasing brokerage agreement, the broker shall be entitled to a lien under this subtitle for the unpaid portion of the commission.
(b) (1) A broker’s lien established under this subtitle shall:
(i) Subject to subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, have priority over all liens of every kind perfected against the lien property after the issuance of an interlocutory order or the final order of the court under § 14-305 of this subtitle;
(ii) Be subordinate to a mechanics’ lien established under Title 9 of this article, and perfected subsequent to the broker’s lien if the mechanics’ lien relates back to a date when work was performed or materials were furnished and that date is prior to the issuance of an interlocutory order or the final order of the court under § 14-305 of this subtitle;
(iii) Be subordinate to all liens perfected prior to the issuance of an interlocutory order or the final order of the court under § 14-305 of this subtitle, notwithstanding that the holder of a prior perfected lien had knowledge of the broker’s unfiled commission claim at the time of perfection; and
(iv) Be subordinate to all other liens which are otherwise paramount to the broker’s lien by operation of law.
(2) (i) A commercial property may not be subjected to a broker’s lien under this subtitle if, prior to the establishment of the broker’s lien, legal title has been granted to a bona fide purchaser for value.
(ii) The filing of a petition under § 14-304 of this subtitle shall constitute notice to a purchaser of the possibility of a broker’s lien perfected under this subtitle.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-303
A lien established in accordance with this subtitle shall extend to the land covered by the building and to as much other land, immediately adjacent and belonging in like manner to the owner of the building, as may be necessary for the ordinary and useful purposes of the building.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-304
(a) To establish a broker’s lien under this subtitle, a broker shall commence proceedings in the circuit court where the commercial property is located within 180 days after the commercial leasing commission became due and payable by filing with the clerk of the court:
(1) A petition to establish a broker’s lien, which shall contain the following:
(i) The name and address of the petitioner;
(ii) The name and address of the owner;
(iii) A copy of the brokerage agreement;
(iv) A description of the lien property, including a statement whether part of the lien property is located in another county, by:
1. Reasonably specific geographic location;
2. Street address; or
3. Legal description from the deed as recorded among the land records; and
(v) The amount of the commission and the unpaid portion of the commission;
(2) An affidavit by the broker or by an individual on behalf of the broker stating the facts which the broker is claiming a broker’s lien against the lien property in the amount specified; and
(3) Either original or sworn, certified or photostatic copies of all material papers or parts of any material papers, if any, which constitute the basis of the broker’s claim for a lien, unless the absence of any material papers or parts of any material papers is explained in the affidavit.
(b) The clerk shall docket the proceedings as an action in equity, and all process shall issue out of and all pleadings shall be filed in the one action.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-305
(a) (1) When a petition to establish a broker’s lien is filed, the court shall review the pleadings and documents on file and may require the petitioner to supplement or explain any matters set forth in the petition, pleadings, or documents.
(2) If the court determines that the lien should attach, it shall pass an order that:
(i) Directs the owner to show cause within 15 days from the date of service on the owner of a copy of the order, together with copies of the pleadings and documents on file, why a broker’s lien on the lien property and for the amount described in the petition should not attach; and
(ii) Informs the owner that:
1. The owner may appear at the time stated in the order and present evidence on the owner’s behalf or may file a counter-affidavit at or before that time; and
2. If the owner fails to appear and present evidence or file a counter-affidavit, the facts in the affidavit supporting the petitioner’s claim shall be deemed admitted and a broker’s lien may attach to the lien property as described in the petition.
(3) (i) If the owner desires to controvert any statement of fact contained in the affidavit supporting the petitioner’s claim, the owner shall file an affidavit in support of the owner’s answer showing cause.
(ii) The failure of the owner to file an opposing affidavit shall constitute an admission for the purposes of the proceedings of all statements of facts in the affidavit supporting the petitioner’s claim, but shall not constitute an admission that a broker’s petition or affidavit in support of the broker’s petition is legally sufficient.
(4) After the filing of an answer showing cause why a broker’s lien should not be established in the amount claimed, the court shall schedule a hearing at the earliest possible time.
(b) (1) (i) If the pleadings, affidavits, and admissions on file and the evidence, if any, show that there is no genuine dispute as to any material fact and that the lien should attach as a matter of law, then the court shall issue a final order establishing the lien for want of any cause shown to the contrary.
(ii) If it appears that there is no genuine dispute as to any portion of the broker’s lien claim, then the validity of that portion shall be established and the action shall proceed only on the disputed amount of the broker’s lien claim.
(2) If the pleadings, affidavits, and admissions on file and the evidence, if any, show that there is no genuine dispute as to any material fact and that the petitioner failed to establish the broker’s right to a broker’s lien as a matter of law, then the court shall issue a final order denying the lien for cause shown.
(3) If the court determines from the pleadings, affidavits, and admissions on file and the evidence, if any, that the broker’s lien should not attach, or should not attach in the amount claimed, as a matter of law, by any final order, but that there is probable cause to believe that the petitioner is entitled to a broker’s lien, the court shall enter an interlocutory order which:
(i) Establishes the broker’s lien;
(ii) Describes the lien property to which the broker’s lien attaches;
(iii) States the amount of the claim for which probable cause is found;
(iv) Specifies the amount of the bond that the owner may file to have the lien property released from the broker’s lien;
(v) May require the claimant to file a bond in an amount that the court believes sufficient for damages, including reasonable attorney’s fees; and
(vi) Assigns a date for the trial of all matters at issue in the action, which shall be within a period of 6 months.
(4) The owner or any other person interested in the lien property may move to have the broker’s lien established by the interlocutory order modified or dissolved at any time.
(c) (1) The amount of and the surety on any bond shall be determined and approved in accordance with the Maryland Rules except as stated in this subtitle.
(2) (i) If the petitioner, or any other person interested in the lien property, is not satisfied with the sufficiency of a surety or with the amount of any bond given, the petitioner, or any other person interested in the lien property may, at any time before entry of a final decree, apply to the court for an order requiring an additional bond.
(ii) After notice to the other parties involved, the court may order the giving of an additional bond as it may deem proper.
(3) Instead of filing a bond, any party may deposit money in an amount equal to the amount of the bond which would otherwise be required, in accordance with the Maryland Rules.
(d) Until a final order is entered either establishing or denying the broker’s lien, the action shall proceed to trial on all matters at issue, as in the case of any other proceedings in equity.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-306
(a) If any part of the lien property is located within another county and the petitioner desires that the broker’s lien attach to the lien property in that county, the petitioner shall file a certified copy of the docket entries, the court order, and any required bond with the clerk of the circuit court for that county.
(b) A broker’s lien attaches to the lien property in a county at the time the documents required to be filed under subsection (a) of this section are filed with the clerk of the circuit court of that county.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-307
(a) Subject to subsection (b) of this section, if all or any part of the lien property against which a broker’s lien has been established under this subtitle is to be sold under a foreclosure or a judgment, execution or any other court order, all liens and encumbrances on the lien property that are subordinate to the lien with respect to which the property is sold shall be satisfied in accordance with their priority.
(b) (1) If the proceeds of the sale are insufficient to satisfy all broker’s liens established under this subtitle, then all proceeds available to satisfy each broker’s lien shall be stated by the court auditor as one fund.
(2) The amount to be disbursed to satisfy each broker’s lien established under this subtitle shall bear the same proportion to that fund as the amount of each broker’s lien bears to the total amount secured by all broker’s liens, without regard to priority among the broker’s liens.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-308
(a) A broker’s lien established under this subtitle may be enforced to the same extent as a judgment under the Maryland Rules, including a judicial sale of the lien property to satisfy the amount of the broker’s lien.
(b) (1) The right to enforce any broker’s lien under this subtitle expires at the end of 1 year from the day on which the petition to establish the broker’s lien was first filed.
(2) During the 1-year period the claimant may file a petition in the broker’s lien proceedings to enforce the lien or to execute on any bond given to obtain a release of the lien property from the broker’s lien.
(3) If a petition to enforce the lien is filed within the 1-year period, the right to a broker’s lien or the broker’s lien, or any bond given to obtain a release of the broker’s lien, shall remain in full force and effect until the conclusion of the enforcement proceedings and after the conclusion of the enforcement proceedings in accordance with the decree entered in the case.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-309
Nothing in this subtitle affects the right of any broker, to whom a commercial leasing commission is due and payable under a commercial leasing brokerage agreement, to maintain any personal action against the owner of commercial property or any other person for the commission due and payable.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-310
(a) This law is remedial and shall be so construed to give effect to its purpose.
(b) (1) Any amendment shall be made in the proceedings, commencing with the claim or broker’s lien to be filed and extending to all subsequent proceedings, as may be necessary or proper.
(2) The amount of the claim or broker’s lien filed may not be enlarged by amendment.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-311
(a) A commercial leasing brokerage agreement between a broker and an owner may not waive or require the broker to waive the right to claim or establish a broker’s lien.
(b) Any waiver provision made in a commercial leasing brokerage agreement or any other contract, express or implied, between a broker and an owner made in violation of this section is void as a matter of public policy.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-312
(a) At the time of any settlement or payment in full between a broker and an owner, the broker shall give to the owner a signed release of the broker’s lien established under this subtitle.
(b) An owner is not subject to a lien and is not otherwise liable for any commission included in the release under subsection (a) of this section.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-313
Subject to the provisions of this subtitle, an action to establish and enforce a broker’s lien under this subtitle, and all proceedings held under this subtitle, shall be in accordance with the Maryland Rules applicable to the establishment and enforcement of a mechanics’ lien under Title 9 of this article.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-401
In this subtitle, “Maryland Coordinate System” means the system of plane rectangular coordinates that has been established and adopted by the National Geodetic Survey for defining and stating the positions or locations of points on the surface of the earth within the State.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-402
This subtitle:
(1) Does not apply to Baltimore City; and
(2) Does not refer to and is not connected with the coordinate system used by the Bureau of Plans and Surveys of Baltimore City.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-403
(a) If a land description uses the Maryland Coordinate System, it shall be designated on the land description.
(b) A survey of lands may not have endorsed on the survey any legend or other statement indicating that the survey is based on the Maryland Coordinate System unless the survey actually is based on the Maryland Coordinate System.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-404
(a) The plane rectangular coordinates of a point on the earth’s surface, to be used in expressing the position or location of the point on the Maryland Coordinate System, consist of two distances, expressed in meters and decimals of meters.
(b) (1) One of the distances, known as the “eastings”, shall give the position in an east-west direction.
(2) The other distance, known as the “northings”, shall give the position in a north-south direction.
(c) The plane rectangular coordinates under this section shall be made to depend on and conform to the plane rectangular coordinates of the triangulation and traverse stations of the National Geodetic Survey within the State, as those coordinates have been determined by the National Geodetic Survey.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-405
(a) For the purpose of more precisely defining the Maryland Coordinate System, the standards of the National Geodetic Survey set out in this section are adopted.
(b) (1) The Maryland Coordinate System is a Lambert conic conformal projection of the Geodetic Reference System of 1980, having standard parallels at north latitudes 38 degrees 18’ and 39 degrees 27’, along which parallels the scale shall be exact.
(2) The origin of coordinates is at the intersection of the meridian 77 degrees 00’ west longitude and the parallel 37 degrees 40’ north latitude.
(3) This origin is given the coordinates: Easting=400,000 meters and northing=0 meters.
(c) For the Maryland Coordinate System, the unit used to convert feet to meters is the United States survey foot, which is 39.37/12 feet for each meter.
(d) The position of the Maryland Coordinate System shall be as marked on the ground by triangulation or traverse stations established in conformity with the standards adopted by the National Geodetic Survey for first-order and second-order work, whose:
(1) Geodetic positions have been rigidly adjusted on the North American Datum of 1983; and
(2) Plane coordinates have been computed in accordance with this section.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-406
A triangulation or traverse station may be used in establishing a survey connection with the Maryland Coordinate System if:
(1) The triangulation or traverse station is established:
(i) In accordance with § 14-405 of this subtitle; or
(ii) By or in accordance with the requirements of the State department authorized to administer this subtitle; and
(2) The connection is made in accordance with the regulations adopted by the State department authorized to administer this subtitle.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-407
This subtitle does not require any purchaser or mortgagee to rely wholly on a description based on the Maryland Coordinate System.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-501
(a) In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b) “Affordable housing land trust” means an entity that:
(1) Provides affordable housing to low–income families and moderate–income families through an affordable housing land trust agreement; and
(2) Is organized or managed by:
(i) A nonprofit organization exempt from taxation under § 501(c)(2), (3), or (4) of the United States Internal Revenue Code; or
(ii) A unit or instrumentality of the State or a political subdivision of the State.
(c) “Affordable housing land trust agreement” means an agreement between an affordable housing land trust and a purchaser of real property owned by the affordable housing land trust, or for which the affordable housing land trust has a proprietary or reversionary interest, that:
(1) Grants the affordable housing land trust a preemptive right to purchase or repurchase the property, including any improvements on the property;
(2) Contains language restricting the transfer, lease, sublease, assignment, or occupancy of the property with regard to:
(i) Potential transferees, sublessees, assignees, or occupants; and
(ii) The price at which the property may be transferred; or
(3) Imposes other conditions on the use or transfer of the property that would trigger a reversionary interest and that are designed to ensure that the property remains available and affordable to low–income families and moderate–income families.
(d) “Family” means a household consisting of one or more individuals.
(e) “Low–income family” means a household with an income that does not exceed 80% of the area median income for a household of the same size.
(f) “Moderate–income family” means a household with an income that does not exceed 140% of the area median income for a household of the same size.
(g) “Nonprofit status” means the recognition by the Internal Revenue Service that an affordable housing land trust is exempt from taxation under § 501(c)(2), (3), or (4) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-502
(a) An affordable housing land trust agreement created under this subtitle:
(1) Is not a ground lease; and
(2) Is not subject to any provision concerning ground leases under Title 8 of this article or Subtitle 1 of this title or under any other provision of the Code.
(b) This subtitle does not apply to any ground lease that is subject to Title 8 of this article or Subtitle 1 of this title.
(c) This subtitle may not be construed to exempt any affordable housing land trust or any affordable housing land trust agreement from any provision of law mandating equal treatment or prohibiting discrimination.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-503
(a) In this section, “Department” means the State Department of Assessments and Taxation.
(b) Each affordable housing land trust shall register its creation with the Department on a form prescribed by the Department.
(c) An affordable housing land trust shall submit updates relating to its organization, tax status, address, officers, and any other information as required by the Department.
(d) (1) The Department shall maintain an online list of registered affordable housing land trusts in the State.
(2) The Department is not responsible for the completeness or accuracy of the contents of the online list or the accuracy of any registration.
(e) The Department shall adopt regulations to carry out and enforce the provisions of this section.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-504
In accordance with this subtitle, an affordable housing land trust may:
(1) Acquire residential real property;
(2) Acquire an interest in property for the construction of residential real property;
(3) Make improvements on residential real property;
(4) Enter into affordable housing land trust agreements with persons who meet the criteria set out in this subtitle and any other criteria as established in the affordable housing land trust agreement for the transfer of an interest in residential real property; and
(5) Engage in other activities related to the sale, leasing, management, maintenance, and preservation of properties under the control of the affordable housing land trust.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-505
(a) An affordable housing land trust agreement may:
(1) Restrict the transfer, lease, sublease, or assignment of possession or of any interest in the property to a person who does not meet the conditions set forth in the affordable housing land trust agreement for that property;
(2) Grant the affordable housing land trust the right to repurchase any interest in the property and any improvements on the property under terms set forth in the affordable housing land trust agreement and in accordance with the requirements of § 14–506 of this subtitle;
(3) Grant the affordable housing land trust the right to take possession of the property and sell the property if a condition defined in the agreement is met and in accordance with the requirements of § 14–507 of this subtitle;
(4) Provide for the reversion of the property at the end of the term of the affordable housing land trust agreement under conditions set forth in the agreement;
(5) Provide a mechanism or formula for the sharing of any proceeds from a future sale or transfer of an interest in the property under terms set forth in the agreement; and
(6) Provide other mechanisms to enforce the terms of the affordable housing land trust agreement.
(b) An affordable housing land trust shall record any affordable housing land trust agreement in accordance with subsection (f) of this section and Title 3 of this article.
(c) An affordable housing land trust agreement:
(1) May not extend for a term longer than 99 years; and
(2) May be renewed under conditions set forth in the agreement.
(d) An affordable housing land trust agreement shall:
(1) Be in writing; and
(2) Clearly identify each term and condition.
(e) (1) A copy of an affordable housing land trust agreement shall be provided to the purchaser of any property covered by the agreement at least 15 days before the purchaser enters into a contract acquiring an interest in or possession of any property covered by the agreement.
(2) (i) If a copy of the affordable housing land trust agreement is not provided as required under this subsection, a contract entered into by a purchaser of any property covered by the agreement is voidable by the purchaser.
(ii) The failure to provide a copy of the affordable housing land trust agreement as required under this subsection is cause for the rescission of any transaction involving the transfer of any interest in the property by the purchaser.
(f) A copy of the affordable housing land trust agreement and a signed, notarized affidavit acknowledging receipt of the affordable housing land trust agreement by the transferee shall be:
(1) Recorded in the land records of the county in which the property is located;
(2) Indexed in the grantor and grantee indices with the seller as grantor and the purchaser as grantee; and
(3) Notwithstanding the fact that a copy of the affordable housing land trust agreement, rather than the original, is offered for record with the affidavit, accepted for recording by the clerk without payment of recordation and transfer taxes.
(g) Recordation of a copy of the affordable housing land trust agreement and the affidavit:
(1) Terminates the right of rescission; and
(2) Provides a conclusive presumption that a contract of sale was not rescinded.
(h) The terms of an affordable housing land trust agreement may be modified or changed only with the written consent of all the parties.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-506
(a) (1) Subject to paragraphs (2) and (3) of this subsection, an affordable housing land trust agreement may authorize the affordable housing land trust to repurchase any interest in the property covered and any improvements on it under conditions set forth in the agreement.
(2) The time period during which the affordable housing land trust may exercise the right to repurchase shall be set forth in the affordable housing land trust agreement and may not exceed 120 days from the date that the affordable housing land trust receives notice of an event that would give the affordable housing land trust the right to exercise the right to repurchase.
(3) The failure of an affordable housing land trust to exercise the right to repurchase does not prohibit the affordable housing land trust from exercising any other right established in the agreement, including the right to share in the proceeds of the first sale to a purchaser following the failure of the land trust to exercise its right to repurchase.
(b) (1) Except as provided in subsection (a)(3) of this section or in the affordable housing land trust agreement, the failure to exercise a right to repurchase extinguishes the right of the affordable housing land trust to exercise any reversionary interest in the future.
(2) A subsequent purchaser who acquires the specified interest in the property in an arms–length, third–party transaction for a fair market price after the affordable housing land trust has not exercised its right to repurchase receives title, free of any rights established in the affordable housing land trust agreement that would otherwise have been enforceable by the affordable housing land trust.
(3) (i) A seller who sells the specified interest in the property to a purchaser in an arms–length, third–party transaction for a fair market price after the affordable housing land trust has failed to exercise its right to repurchase shall execute a signed, notarized affidavit attesting to the fact of the seller’s notification to the affordable housing land trust and the affordable housing land trust’s failure to exercise its right to repurchase.
(ii) The affidavit shall be recorded with the deed transferring the specified interest in the property to the purchaser in accordance with § 14–505(f) of this subtitle.
(iii) Recordation of the affidavit under this paragraph provides a conclusive presumption of the fact that the affordable housing land trust failed to exercise its right to repurchase.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-507
An affordable housing land trust agreement may authorize the affordable housing land trust to take possession of the property and any improvements and sell or transfer the specified interest in the property if:
(1) A condition defined in the affordable housing land trust agreement authorizing the action is met;
(2) The sale is made under Title 14, Chapter 300 of the Maryland Rules;
(3) The owner of the interest in the property retains the right to any proceeds of a sale as set forth in the affordable housing land trust agreement; and
(4) The right of the owner to the proceeds has precedence over any claim by the affordable housing land trust to the proceeds of the sale.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-508
The reversionary rights of an affordable housing land trust as set forth in the affordable housing land trust agreement are limited to provisions that relate to:
(1) The transfer of the property to a person who is not a party to the agreement or a person who does not meet the conditions set forth in the affordable housing land trust agreement;
(2) The possession of the property by a person who does not meet the conditions set forth in the affordable housing land trust agreement;
(3) The transfer of an interest in the property to a person who does not meet the conditions set forth in the affordable housing land trust agreement;
(4) The waste, destruction, or abandonment of the property; or
(5) The failure to comply with any financial provision in the affordable housing land trust agreement.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-509
(a) In any assessment for tax purposes of property subject to an affordable housing land trust agreement, the property shall be assessed based on its market value subject to any restrictions in the affordable housing land trust agreement.
(b) The assessment shall note that the sale was not an arms–length transfer on the property tax record.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-510
(a) A nonprofit organization operating an affordable housing land trust that gives up or loses its nonprofit status may no longer operate an affordable housing land trust under the terms of this subtitle.
(b) A nonprofit organization operating an affordable housing land trust may transfer its interest in any affordable housing land trust agreement to another affordable housing land trust, provided that the nonprofit organization does not receive any financial or other valuable compensation for the transfer other than compensation for incidental costs associated with the transfer.
(c) If a nonprofit organization operating an affordable housing land trust gives up or loses its nonprofit status and does not transfer its interest in an affordable housing land trust agreement as provided in subsection (b) of this section, the affordable housing land trust agreement is abrogated and any reversionary interest contained in the agreement or any provision for the sharing of proceeds becomes unenforceable.
(d) If an affordable housing land trust agreement becomes unenforceable, the title holder to the property obtains fee simple title to the property without restriction.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-511
This subtitle may be cited as the Affordable Housing Land Trust Act.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-601
(a) In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b) “Claim” includes a legal or equitable right, title, estate, lien, or interest in property or a cloud on the title to property.
(c) “Holder” means the mortgagee, trustee, beneficiary, nominee, or assignee of record, if any, of a security instrument.
(d) “Property” means real property or any interest in or appurtenant to real property, including fixtures.
(e) “Security instrument” means a recorded mortgage or deed of trust or an assignment of a recorded mortgage or deed of trust.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-602
An action may be brought under this subtitle to establish title against adverse claims to property, including adverse claims described in § 14–108 of this title.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-603
(a) In an action under this subtitle, the court is deemed to have obtained possession and control of the property for the purposes of the action.
(b) This subtitle does not limit any authority the court may have to grant any equitable relief that may be proper under the circumstances of the case.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-604
The Maryland Rules apply to actions under this subtitle, except to the extent they are inconsistent with the provisions of this subtitle.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-605
(a) At the time a complaint is filed, the plaintiff shall send each holder that is not named as a party in the action a copy of the complaint with exhibits and a statement that:
(1) The holder is not a party in the proceeding and any judgment in the proceeding will not affect any claim of the holder; and
(2) If the holder elects to appear in the proceeding, the holder will appear as a defendant and be bound by any judgment entered in the proceeding.
(b) The complaint and statement shall be sent by certified mail, return receipt requested, and by first–class mail to the holder:
(1) At the address set forth in the security instrument for the holder’s receipt of notices; or
(2) If no address for the holder’s receipt of notices is set forth in the security instrument, at the last known address of the holder.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-606
A complaint under this subtitle shall be verified and shall include:
(1) A description of the property that is the subject of the action, including both its legal description and its street address or common designation, if any;
(2) (i) The title of the plaintiff as to which a determination is sought and the basis of the title; and
(ii) If the title is based on adverse possession, the specific facts constituting the adverse possession;
(3) The adverse claims to the title of the plaintiff against which a determination is sought; and
(4) A prayer for a determination of the title of the plaintiff against the adverse claims.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-607
(a) An answer to a complaint under this subtitle shall be verified and shall set forth:
(1) Any claim the defendant has to the property that is the subject of the action;
(2) Any facts tending to controvert any material allegations of the complaint that the defendant does not wish to be taken as true; and
(3) A statement of any new matter constituting a defense.
(b) If the defendant disclaims any interest in the title of the property in the answer or allows judgment to be taken without answer, the plaintiff may not recover costs.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-608
(a) The plaintiff shall name as defendants in an action under this subtitle the persons having adverse claims to the title of the plaintiff that are of record or known to the plaintiff or reasonably apparent from an inspection of the property against which a determination is sought.
(b) If the plaintiff admits the validity of any adverse claim, the plaintiff shall state the admission in the complaint.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-609
(a) If the name of a person required to be named as a defendant is not known to the plaintiff, the plaintiff shall state in the complaint that the name is unknown and shall name as parties all persons unknown in the manner provided in § 14–613 of this subtitle.
(b) (1) If the claim or the share or quantity of the claim of a person required to be named as a defendant is unknown, uncertain, or contingent, the plaintiff shall state those facts in the complaint.
(2) If the lack of knowledge, uncertainty, or contingency is caused by a transfer to an unborn or unascertained person or class member, or by a transfer in the form of a contingent remainder, vested remainder subject to defeasance, executory interest, or similar disposition, the plaintiff shall also state in the complaint, so far as is known to the plaintiff, the name, age, and legal disability, if any, of the person in being who would be entitled to the claim had the contingency on which the claim depends occurred before the commencement of the action.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-610
(a) If a person required to be named as a defendant is dead and the plaintiff knows of a personal representative, the plaintiff shall join the personal representative as a defendant.
(b) (1) If a person required to be named as a defendant is dead, or is believed by the plaintiff to be dead, and the plaintiff knows of no personal representative, the plaintiff shall state those facts in an affidavit filed with the complaint.
(2) If the plaintiff states in an affidavit under paragraph (1) of this subsection that a person is dead, the plaintiff may join as defendants “the testate and intestate successors of __________ (naming the deceased person), deceased, and all persons claiming by, through, or under the decedent”.
(3) If the plaintiff states in an affidavit under paragraph (1) of this subsection that a person is believed to be dead, the plaintiff may join the person as a defendant, and may also join “the testate and intestate successors of __________ (naming the person), believed to be deceased, and all persons claiming by, through, or under the person believed to be deceased”.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-611
The court on its own motion or on motion of any party may issue any appropriate order to require:
(1) Joinder of any additional parties that are necessary or proper; and
(2) The plaintiff to procure a title report supported by an affidavit by the person making the search that a complete search of the public records has been performed in accordance with generally accepted standards of title examination for the appropriate period as determined by the court, but not less than 60 years, and designate a place where the title report shall be kept for inspection, use, and copying by the parties.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-612
Any person who has a claim to the property described in a complaint under this subtitle may appear in the proceeding.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-613
In addition to the persons required to be named as defendants in an action under this subtitle, the plaintiff may name as defendants “all persons unknown, claiming any legal or equitable right, title, estate, lien, or interest in the property described in the complaint adverse to the plaintiff’s title, or any cloud on the plaintiff’s title to the property”.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-614
The court on its own motion or on motion of any party may issue an order for appointment of an attorney to protect the interest of any party to the same extent and effect as provided under Rule 2–203 of the Maryland Rules with respect to individuals not in being.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-615
(a) (1) If, on affidavit of the plaintiff, it appears to the satisfaction of the court that the plaintiff has used reasonable diligence to ascertain the identity and residence of and to serve a summons on the persons named as unknown defendants and persons joined as testate or intestate successors of a person known or believed to be dead, the court shall order service by publication in accordance with Rule 2–122 of the Maryland Rules and the provisions of this subtitle.
(2) The order shall direct that a copy of the summons, the complaint, and the order for publication be mailed immediately to the party if the party’s address is ascertained before expiration of the time prescribed for publication of the summons.
(b) This section does not authorize service by publication on any person named as an unknown defendant who is in open and actual possession of the property.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-616
(a) If the court orders service by publication, the plaintiff shall:
(1) Post, not later than 10 days after the date the order is issued, a copy of the summons and complaint in a conspicuous place on the property that is the subject of the action; and
(2) File proof that the summons has been served, posted, and published as required in the order.
(b) If the court orders service by publication, the publication shall use the legal description of the property along with its street address, or other common designation, if any.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-617
(a) In all cases the plaintiff shall submit evidence at a hearing before the court establishing the plaintiff’s title and the court may hear or take any evidence offered respecting the claims of any defendant, other than claims the validity of which is admitted by the plaintiff in the complaint.
(b) (1) A judgment in an action under this subtitle shall be recorded in the land records of the county in which any portion of the property is located.
(2) The clerk shall index the judgment in accordance with § 3–302 of this article, with the parties against whom the judgment is entered as grantor and the party in whose favor the judgment is entered as grantee.
(c) Except as provided under § 14–607(b) of this subtitle, a court may award to either party costs and reasonable attorney’s fees if a claim or defense in the case is related to an alleged violation of § 3–104.2 of this article.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-618
A judgment in an action under this subtitle is binding and conclusive, regardless of any legal disability, on:
(1) All persons known and unknown who were parties to the action and who have any claim to the property, whether present or future, vested or contingent, legal or equitable, several or undivided; and
(2) Except as provided in § 14–619 of this subtitle, all persons who were not parties to the action and who have any claim to the property that was not of record at the time the action was commenced.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-619
(a) A judgment in an action under this subtitle does not affect a claim in the property or part of the property of any person who was not a party to the action, if, at the time the action was commenced:
(1) The claim was of record; or
(2) The claim was actually known to the plaintiff or would have been reasonably apparent from an inspection of the property.
(b) This section may not be construed to impair the rights of a bona fide purchaser or encumbrancer for value dealing with the plaintiff or the plaintiff’s successors in interest.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-620
Any relief granted in an action or proceeding directly or collaterally attacking a judgment entered under this subtitle, whether based on lack of actual notice to a party or otherwise, may not impair the rights of a purchaser or encumbrancer for value of the property acting in reliance on the judgment without knowledge of any defects or irregularities in the judgment or the proceedings.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-621
Notwithstanding any other provision of this subtitle, a judgment in an action under this subtitle is not binding or conclusive on:
(1) The State, unless individually joined as a party to the action and State law authorizes the judgment to be binding or conclusive as to its interests; or
(2) The United States, unless the United States is individually joined as a party to the action and federal law authorizes the judgment to be binding or conclusive as to its interests.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-701
(a) In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b) “Determination of value” means a court order determining the fair market value of property under § 14–707 or § 14–711 of this subtitle or adopting the valuation of property agreed to by all cotenants.
(c) “Partition by sale” means a court–ordered sale of property, whether by auction, sealed bids, or open–market sale conducted under § 14–711 of this subtitle.
(d) “Partition in kind” means the division of property into physically distinct and separately titled parcels.
(e) “Record” means information that is inscribed on a tangible medium or that is stored in an electronic or other medium and is retrievable in perceivable form.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-702
(a) Real property shall be partitioned under this subtitle unless all of the cotenants agree otherwise in a record.
(b) The Maryland Rules apply to actions under this subtitle, except to the extent they are inconsistent with the provisions of this subtitle.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-703
In an action under this subtitle, the court on its own motion or on motion of any party may issue an order:
(1) For the appointment of an attorney to protect the interest of any party to the same extent and effect as provided under Rule 2–203 of the Maryland Rules with respect to individuals not in being;
(2) To require joinder of any additional parties that are necessary or proper; and
(3) To require that the plaintiff:
(i) Procure a title report supported by an affidavit by the person making the title search that a complete search of the public records has been performed in accordance with generally accepted standards of title examination for the appropriate period as determined by the court, but not less than 60 years; and
(ii) Designate a place where the title report shall be kept for inspection, use, and copying by the parties.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-704
In addition to any persons required to be named as defendants in an action under this subtitle, the plaintiff may name as defendants all persons unknown, claiming any legal or equitable right, title, estate, lien, or interest in the property described in the complaint adverse to the plaintiff’s title, or any cloud on the plaintiff’s title to the property.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-705
(a) (1) If, on affidavit of the plaintiff, it appears to the satisfaction of the court that the plaintiff has used reasonable diligence to ascertain the identity and residence of and to serve a summons on the persons named as unknown defendants and persons joined as testate or intestate successors of a person known or believed to be dead, the court shall order service by publication in accordance with Rule 2–122 of the Maryland Rules and the provisions of this subtitle.
(2) The order shall direct that a copy of the summons, the complaint, and the order for publication be mailed immediately to the party if the party’s address is ascertained before expiration of the time prescribed for publication of the summons.
(b) This section does not authorize service by publication on any person named as an unknown defendant who is in open and actual possession of the property.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-706
(a) If the court orders service by publication, the plaintiff shall:
(1) Post, not later than 10 days after the date the order is issued, a copy of the summons and complaint in a conspicuous place on the property that is the subject of the action; and
(2) File proof that the summons has been served, posted, and published as required in the order.
(b) If the court orders service by publication, the publication shall use the legal description of the property along with its street address, or other common designation, if any.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-707
(a) Except as provided in subsections (b) through (d) of this section, the court shall determine the fair market value of the property by ordering an appraisal in accordance with subsection (e) of this section.
(b) The court may accept a previously completed appraisal filed with the court as evidence of value provided that:
(1) The appraisal is dated not earlier than 6 months before the filing of the partition action;
(2) The appraisal was completed by a disinterested real estate appraiser licensed in the State; and
(3) No party objects to the appraised value.
(c) If all cotenants have agreed to the value of the property or to another method of valuation, the court shall adopt that value or the value produced by the agreed method of valuation.
(d) If the court determines that the evidentiary value of an appraisal is outweighed by the cost of the appraisal and no previously completed appraisal was filed under subsection (b) of this section, the court, after an evidentiary hearing, shall determine the fair market value of the property and send notice to the parties of the value.
(e) (1) If the court orders an appraisal under subsection (a) of this section, the court shall appoint a disinterested real estate appraiser licensed in the State to determine the fair market value of the property assuming sole ownership of the fee simple estate.
(2) On completion of the appraisal, the appraiser shall file a sworn or verified appraisal with the court.
(f) If an appraisal is conducted under subsection (a) of this section or filed with the court under subsection (b) of this section, not later than 10 days after the appraisal is filed, the court shall send notice to each party with a known address, stating:
(1) The appraised fair market value of the property;
(2) That the appraisal is available at the office of the clerk; and
(3) That a party may file with the court an objection to the appraisal not later than 30 days after the notice is sent, stating the grounds for the objection.
(g) (1) If an appraisal is filed with the court under subsection (e) of this section, the court shall conduct a hearing to determine the fair market value of the property not sooner than 30 days after a copy of the notice of the appraisal is sent to each party under subsection (f) of this section, whether or not an objection to the appraisal is filed under subsection (f)(3) of this section.
(2) In addition to an appraisal described under subsection (a) or (b) of this section, the court may consider any other evidence of value offered by a party.
(h) After a hearing under subsection (g) of this section, but before considering the merits of the partition action, the court shall determine the fair market value of the property and send notice to the parties of the value.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-708
(a) If any cotenant requested partition by sale, after the determination of value under § 14–707 of this subtitle, the court shall send notice to the parties that any cotenant, except a cotenant that requested partition by sale, may buy all the interests of the cotenants that requested partition by sale.
(b) Not later than 45 days after the notice is sent under subsection (a) of this section, any cotenant, except a cotenant that requested partition by sale, may give notice to the court that the cotenant elects to buy all the interests of the cotenants that requested partition by sale.
(c) The purchase price for each of the interests of a cotenant that requested partition by sale is the value of the entire parcel determined under § 14–707 of this subtitle multiplied by the cotenant’s fractional ownership of the entire parcel.
(d) After expiration of the period described in subsection (b) of this section, the following rules apply:
(1) If only one cotenant elects to buy all the interests of the cotenants that requested partition by sale, the court shall notify all the parties;
(2) If more than one cotenant elects to buy all the interests of the cotenants that requested partition by sale, the court shall:
(i) Allocate the right to buy those interests among the electing cotenants based on each electing cotenant’s existing fractional ownership of the entire parcel divided by the total existing fractional ownership of all cotenants electing to buy;
(ii) Notify all the parties that more than one cotenant elected to buy all the interests of the cotenants that requested partition by sale; and
(iii) Send notice of the price to be paid by each electing cotenant; or
(3) If no cotenant elects to buy all the interests of the cotenants that requested partition by sale, the court shall send notice to all the parties and resolve the partition action under § 14–711(a) and (b) of this subtitle.
(e) (1) If the court sends notice to the parties under subsection (d)(1) or (2) of this section, the court shall set a date not sooner than 60 days after the date the notice was sent by which electing cotenants must pay their apportioned price into the court.
(2) After the date set by the court under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the following rules apply:
(i) If all electing cotenants pay their apportioned price into court on time, the court shall issue an order reallocating all the interests of the cotenants and disburse the amounts held by the court to the persons entitled to the funds;
(ii) If no electing cotenant pays the cotenant’s apportioned price on time, the court shall resolve the partition action under § 14–709(a) and (b) of this subtitle as if the interests of the cotenants that requested partition by sale were not purchased; or
(iii) If one or more but not all of the electing cotenants fail to pay their apportioned price on time, the court, on motion, shall give notice of the interest remaining and the price for that interest to the electing cotenants that paid their apportioned price.
(f) (1) Not later than 20 days after the court gives notice under subsection (e)(2)(iii) of this section, any cotenant that paid the cotenant’s apportioned price may elect to purchase all of the remaining interest by paying the entire price into the court.
(2) After the 20–day period described in paragraph (1) of this subsection, the following rules apply:
(i) If only one cotenant pays the entire price for the remaining interest, the court shall:
1. Issue an order reallocating the remaining interest to that cotenant; and
2. Promptly issue an order reallocating the interests of all of the cotenants and disburse the amounts held by the court to the persons entitled to them;
(ii) If no cotenant pays the entire price for the remaining interest, the court shall resolve the partition action under § 14–709(a) and (b) of this subtitle as if the interests of the cotenants that requested partition by sale were not purchased; and
(iii) If more than one cotenant pays the entire price for the remaining interest, the court shall:
1. Reapportion the remaining interest among those paying cotenants, based on each paying cotenant’s original fractional ownership of the entire parcel divided by the total original fractional ownership of all cotenants that paid the entire price for the remaining interest; and
2. Promptly issue an order reallocating all of the cotenants’ interests, disburse the amounts held by the court to the persons entitled to them, and refund any excess payment held by the court.
(g) Not later than 45 days after the court sends notice to the parties under subsection (a) of this section, any cotenant entitled to buy an interest under this section may request the court to authorize the sale as part of the pending action of the interests of cotenants named as defendants and served with the complaint but that did not appear in the action.
(h) If the court receives a timely request under subsection (g) of this section, the court, after a hearing, may deny the request or authorize the requested additional sale on terms the court determines are fair and reasonable, subject to the following limitations:
(1) A sale authorized under this subsection may occur only after the purchase prices for all interests subject to sale under subsections (a) through (f) of this section have been paid into court and those interests have been reallocated among the cotenants as provided in subsections (a) through (f) of this section; and
(2) The purchase price for the interest of a nonappearing cotenant is based on the court’s determination of value under § 14–707 of this subtitle.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-709
(a) (1) If under § 14–708 of this subtitle all the interests of all cotenants that requested partition by sale are not purchased by other cotenants, or if after the conclusion of the buyout a cotenant remains that has requested partition in kind, the court shall order partition in kind unless the court, after consideration of the factors listed in § 14–710 of this subtitle, finds that partition in kind will result in great prejudice to the cotenants as a group.
(2) In considering whether to order partition in kind, the court shall approve a request by two or more parties to have their individual interests aggregated.
(b) If the court does not order partition in kind under subsection (a) of this section, the court shall order partition by sale under § 14–711 of this subtitle or, if no cotenant requested partition by sale, the court shall dismiss the action.
(c) If the court orders partition in kind in accordance with subsection (a) of this section, the court may require that one or more cotenants pay one or more other cotenants amounts so that the payments, taken together with the value of the in–kind distributions to the cotenants, will make the partition in kind just and proportionate in value to the fractional interests held.
(d) If the court orders partition in kind, the court shall allocate to the cotenants that are unknown, unlocatable, or the subject of a default judgment, if their interests were not bought out under § 14–708 of this subtitle, a part of the property representing the combined interests of these cotenants as determined by the court and this part of the property shall remain undivided.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-710
(a) In determining whether partition in kind under § 14–709(a) of this subtitle would result in great prejudice to the cotenants as a group, the court shall consider the following:
(1) Whether the property practicably can be divided among the cotenants;
(2) Whether partition in kind would apportion the property in such a way that the aggregate fair market value of the parcels resulting from the division would be materially less than the value of the property if it were sold as a whole, taking into account the condition under which a court–ordered sale likely would occur;
(3) Evidence of the collective duration of ownership or possession of the property by a cotenant and one or more predecessors in title or predecessors in possession to the cotenant who are or were relatives of the cotenant or each other;
(4) The sentimental attachment of a cotenant to the property, including any attachment arising because the property has ancestral or other unique or special value to the cotenant;
(5) The lawful use being made of the property by a cotenant and the degree to which the cotenant would be harmed if the cotenant could not continue the same use of the property;
(6) The degree to which the cotenants have contributed their pro rata share of the property taxes, insurance, and other expenses associated with maintaining ownership of the property or have contributed to the physical improvement, maintenance, or upkeep of the property; and
(7) Any other relevant factor.
(b) The court may not consider any one factor in subsection (a) of this section to be dispositive without weighing the totality of all relevant factors and circumstances.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-711
(a) If the court orders a sale of property, the sale shall be an open–market sale unless the court finds that a sale by sealed bids or an auction would be more economically advantageous and in the best interest of the cotenants as a group.
(b) (1) If the court orders an open–market sale and the parties, not later than 10 days after the entry of the order, agree on a real estate broker licensed in the State to offer the property for sale, the court shall appoint the broker and establish a reasonable commission.
(2) If the parties do not agree on a broker, the court shall appoint a disinterested real estate broker licensed in the State to offer the property for sale and shall establish a reasonable commission.
(3) A broker appointed under this subsection shall offer the property for sale in a commercially reasonable manner at a price not lower than the determination of value and on the terms and conditions established by the court.
(c) If the broker appointed under subsection (b) of this section obtains within a reasonable time an offer to purchase the property for at least the determination of value:
(1) The broker shall comply with the reporting requirements in § 14–712 of this subtitle; and
(2) The sale may be completed in accordance with State law other than this subtitle.
(d) If the broker appointed under subsection (b) of this section does not obtain within a reasonable time an offer to purchase the property for at least the determination of value, the court, after hearing, may:
(1) Approve the highest outstanding offer, if any;
(2) Redetermine the value of the property and order that the property continue to be offered for an additional time; or
(3) Order that the property be sold by sealed bids or at an auction.
(e) If the court orders a sale by sealed bids or an auction, the court shall set terms and conditions of the sale.
(f) If a purchaser is entitled to a share of the proceeds of the sale, the purchaser is also entitled to a credit against the price in an amount equal to the purchaser’s share of the proceeds.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-712
(a) A broker appointed under § 14–711(b) of this subtitle to offer property for open–market sale shall file a report with the court not later than 7 days after receiving an offer to purchase the property for at least the value determined under § 14–707 or § 14–711 of this subtitle.
(b) A report required under subsection (a) of this section shall contain the following information:
(1) A description of the property to be sold to each buyer;
(2) The name of each buyer;
(3) The proposed purchase price;
(4) The terms and conditions of the proposed sale, including the terms of any owner financing;
(5) The amounts to be paid to lienholders;
(6) A statement of contractual or other arrangements or conditions of the broker’s commission; and
(7) Other material facts relevant to the sale.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-713
This subtitle modifies, limits, and supersedes the Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act, 15 U.S.C. § 7001 et seq., but does not modify, limit, or supersede § 101(c) of that act, 15 U.S.C. § 7001(c), or authorize electronic delivery of any of the notices described in § 103(b) of that act, 15 U.S.C. § 7003(b).
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-801
(a) In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b) “Animal rescue organization” has the meaning stated in § 15–101 of the Agriculture Article.
(c) “Animal shelter” has the meaning stated in § 2–1701 of the Agriculture Article.
(d) “Pet” means a domesticated dog or cat.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-802
This subtitle applies to an action for possession of real property filed on or after November 1, 2023, by:
(1) A landlord against a tenant under § 8–401, § 8–402, or § 8–402.1 of this article; or
(2) A complainant against a person holding possession of real property under § 14–132 of this title.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-803
(a) By October 1, 2023, the Department of Agriculture shall develop and publish on its website a fact sheet that provides information about how a person may care for and protect any pets in the event the person is evicted or loses possession of the person’s property.
(b) The Department of Agriculture shall:
(1) Include in the fact sheet information on State and local resources, including animal shelters and animal rescue organizations; and
(2) Update the fact sheet on a regular basis.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-804
On or after November 1, 2023, at the execution of a lease, the landlord shall include with the lease a link to the fact sheet published on the Department of Agriculture’s website under § 14–803 of this subtitle if the landlord knows that a tenant possesses a pet.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-805
Beginning November 1, 2023, the Maryland Judiciary shall include a link to the fact sheet published on the Department of Agriculture’s website under § 14–803 of this subtitle with any warrant issued under § 8–401(f)(1)(i), § 8–402(b)(2)(i) or (v), or § 8–402.1(b) of this article or § 14–132(f) or (i) of this title.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-806
(a) (1) Subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, when possession of real property is delivered to a landlord or complainant following an action under § 8–401, § 8–402, or § 8–402.1 of this article or § 14–132 of this title, the sheriff, constable, or other official shall:
(i) Immediately inspect the premises for any pet; and
(ii) Provide to the tenant or person who was holding possession of the real property any pet on the premises belonging to the tenant or person who was holding possession of the real property.
(2) If the tenant or person who was holding possession of real property is not present at the time the real property is delivered to a landlord or complainant, the sheriff, constable, or other official shall:
(i) Contact an animal shelter or animal rescue organization to take custody of the pet;
(ii) Provide the tenant or person who was holding possession of the real property with the name and contact information of the animal shelter or animal rescue organization where the pet is taken; and
(iii) Provide the animal shelter or animal rescue organization with the name and contact information, including the telephone number if available, of the tenant or person who was holding possession of the real property from which the pet was taken.
(b) A person may not remove a pet from real property delivered to a landlord or complainant following an action under § 8–401, § 8–402, or § 8–402.1 of this article or § 14–132 of this title and leave the pet on public property or a public right–of–way.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-901
(a) In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b) “Record” means the act of adding any document or data that affects residential property to State or local government records.
(c) (1) “Residential property” means real property improved by a dwelling unit that is designed principally and is intended for human habitation.
(2) “Residential property” includes:
(i) A residential condominium unit; and
(ii) A unit in a cooperative project, as defined in § 5–6B–01 of the Corporations and Associations Article.
(d) (1) “Service agreement” means an agreement where a service provider agrees to provide an individual services for:
(i) The maintenance of residential property that the individual owns; or
(ii) The purchase or sale of residential property.
(2) “Service agreement” includes any memorandum, notice, agreement, or similar document that is used by a service provider to cause a service agreement to be recorded.
(e) (1) “Service provider” means a person that provides services to an individual through a service agreement for:
(i) The maintenance of residential property that the individual owns; or
(ii) The purchase or sale of residential property.
(2) “Service provider” includes any person acting as an agent or designee of a service provider.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-902
(a) This subtitle applies only to a service agreement entered into on or after June 1, 2023.
(b) This subtitle does not apply to:
(1) A home warranty or similar product that covers the cost of maintenance of a major home system such as plumbing, electrical, or heating, ventilating, and air–conditioning;
(2) An insurance contract;
(3) An option or right of refusal to purchase residential property;
(4) A declaration created in the formation of a common interest community, as defined in § 1–801 of the Environment Article;
(5) A maintenance or repair agreement entered into by a homeowners association, as defined in § 11B–101 of this article;
(6) A mortgage loan or a commitment to make or receive a mortgage loan;
(7) An agreement relating to the sale or rental of personal property;
(8) Water, sewer, electrical, telephone, cable, or other regulated utility providers; or
(9) A mechanics lien, as established under Title 9 of this article.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-903
A service agreement, or any part of a service agreement, may not:
(1) Be effective for more than 1 year; or
(2) (i) Purport to run with the land or bind subsequent bona fide purchasers;
(ii) Purport to create a lien, encumbrance, or security interest on the residential property of a party to the service agreement; or
(iii) Allow the service provider to assign or transfer the right to provide services under the service agreement to another person without notice or the consent of a party to the service agreement.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-904
A service agreement that violates § 14–903 of this subtitle shall be void and unenforceable.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-905
(a) A violation of § 14–903 of this subtitle by a service provider is:
(1) An unfair, abusive, or deceptive trade practice within the meaning of Title 13 of the Commercial Law Article; and
(2) Subject to the enforcement and penalty provisions contained in Title 13 of the Commercial Law Article.
(b) This section does not prevent an individual from pursuing any other remedy provided by law.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-906
(a) A service provider may not submit a service agreement that is in violation of § 14–903 of this subtitle to the clerk of a circuit court or a State or local agency for recording.
(b) A service provider who violates subsection (a) of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 6 months or a fine not exceeding $1,000 or both.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-907
The clerk of a circuit court or a State or local agency may deny a request to record a service agreement if it is determined that the service agreement is in violation of § 14–903 of this subtitle.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-908
A recorded service agreement that is in violation of § 14–903 of this subtitle may not provide actual or constructive notice of a lien arising from the service agreement to a subsequent bona fide purchaser of the residential property.
Md. Code, Real Property § 14-909
(a) If a service agreement that is in violation of § 14–903 of this subtitle is recorded, any person with an interest in the residential property that is subject to a lien arising from the service agreement may bring an action against the service provider in the circuit court of the county where the residential property is located to request a determination that the service agreement is void and unenforceable under this subtitle.
(b) If a service agreement is determined to be void and unenforceable under subsection (a) of this section, the person who brought the action may seek:
(1) Compensatory damages; and
(2) Reasonable attorney’s fees and costs.
Source: Open US Law by Vaquill AI (CC BY 4.0)URL: https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Laws/StatutesFetched: 10/16/2026