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HB 979

Maryland Self-Service Storage Act - Sale of Personal Property in Satisfaction of Lien - Notice Requirements

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Andre Johnson and 5 co-sponsors

Maryland law now requires self-service storage facilities to provide enhanced notice to customers before selling their property for unpaid rent, strengthening consumer protections against loss of personal belongings.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 210
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Bill Summary · HB 979

Legislative bill overview

HB 979 modifies Maryland's self-service storage lien laws by establishing new notice requirements that facilities must follow before selling a tenant's personal property to satisfy unpaid storage fees. The bill updates procedures for how storage companies must notify customers of delinquent accounts and their right to reclaim property before a forced sale occurs.

Why is this important

Self-service storage facilities regularly sell tenants' belongings when rent goes unpaid, sometimes resulting in loss of valuable or irreplaceable items. Clearer notice requirements protect consumers from losing property without adequate warning while also establishing clearer legal standards for storage businesses to follow, reducing disputes and potential litigation.

Potential points of contention

  • Consumer protection vs. business operations: Stricter notice requirements may increase administrative costs for storage facilities, particularly smaller operators, potentially leading to higher fees for consumers
  • Notice adequacy standards: Disagreement over what constitutes "adequate" notice—whether email, certified mail, or in-person notification should be required, and appropriate timeframes for response
  • Enforcement mechanisms: The bill may lack clear penalties or remedies for facilities that fail to comply with notice requirements, potentially limiting its practical effectiveness

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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