Bill > SB165

This bill, effective June 1, 2026, requires landlords of properties served by an on-site wastewater system (defined as a system treating and disposing of wastewater on the same property or an easement, or a holding tank, but excluding systems requiring a discharge permit or treating 5,000+ gallons daily) to ensure the system is inspected and pumped by licensed professionals before a new tenant occupies the property, with such services being valid for three years; it also mandates that beginning July 1, 2028, contracts for the sale of real property with such systems must include a provision requiring the purchaser to ensure the system is inspected and pumped by licensed professionals, with settlement not occurring until both parties receive and confirm the inspection report and pumping service, and that by July 1, 2028, all individuals providing these services must be licensed by the State Board of On-Site Wastewater Professionals, with the Department of the Environment needing to adopt related regulations by July 1, 2027; importantly, these requirements do not apply to certain property transfers between close family members, mortgage refinances, changes in ownership without new parties if the system was inspected within the last five years, or the initial transfer after construction, and the bill clarifies it does not prevent mortgage companies from requiring inspections as part of their terms.

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https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0165?ys=2026RS