Bill > HB979

This bill modifies Maryland's self-service storage laws regarding the process for selling a tenant's personal property when they default on rent payments. Under the revised law, a storage facility operator must provide at least 10 days' notice before selling a tenant's stored items, which can be delivered by hand, verified mail, or electronic mail. If electronic mail is used, the rental agreement must specifically state this notification method in bold type and receive the tenant's initials of agreement. If no response is received from an electronic mail notice, the operator must send a second notice by verified mail. The notice must include details about the outstanding charges, a demand for payment, and potential sale of contents. The bill also requires the operator to advertise the sale at least 3 days before the event through a newspaper, electronic mail, or online website. The sale must be conducted at the storage facility or through an online auction, and the tenant can still redeem their property by paying the outstanding lien amount at any point before the sale. The changes aim to provide clearer and more comprehensive notification requirements to protect tenants' interests when their stored property is at risk of being sold due to payment default.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0979?ys=2025RS