Maryland House Bill HB1309

Maryland 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/11/22
• Refer: 2/11/22

Caption

Landlord and Tenant – Repossession for Failure to Pay Rent – Procedures

Impact

If enacted, HB1309 would significantly modify the existing laws surrounding landlord and tenant relations in Maryland. The bill allows for landlords to repossess their properties more flexibly while requiring specific notification procedures that enhance tenant protections. It aims to reduce the potential for surprise evictions and provides tenants with a clearer understanding of their rights and the steps they can take to avoid repossession. At the same time, it seeks to expedite the repossession process for landlords, making it easier for them to regain possession of properties after judicial approval.

Summary

House Bill 1309 addresses the procedures for landlords to repossess properties from tenants who fail to pay rent. The bill stipulates the necessary notifications landlords must provide to tenants prior to repossession. Specifically, landlords are required to inform tenants in writing, via first-class mail and by posting a notice at the leased premises, at least 14 days and 7 days before the repossession date, respectively. This measure aims to ensure tenants have adequate notice of impending actions against their tenancy.

Contention

The legislative discussions surrounding HB1309 may highlight tensions between landlord interests and tenant rights. While landlords might advocate for streamlined processes to reclaim properties after non-payment, advocates for tenants could express concerns about the potential for abuse or overreach in the repossession process. As the bill introduces specific timelines and notification requirements, it is expected to generate debate on the balance between protecting landlord rights and ensuring that tenant protections are robust enough to prevent unjust repossessions.