§ 8–5A-01
Statutes in effect as of October 1, 2026.
Md. Code Ann., Real Prop. § 8-5A-01 (2026)
Title 8. Landlord and Tenant
Subtitle 5A. Rental Housing -- Victims of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault
§ 8–5A-01LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)
“Abuse” has the meaning stated in § 4–501(b) of the Family Law Article.
(c)
“Legal occupant” means an occupant who resides on the premises with the actual knowledge and permission of the landlord.
(d)
“Offender” means a person who commits an act of abuse.
(e)
“Peace order” means an enforceable final peace order.
(f)
“Protective order” means an enforceable final protective order.
(g)
“Qualified third party” means:
(1)
A physician who is authorized to practice medicine under the Health Occupations Article;
(2)
A psychologist who is authorized to practice psychology under the Health Occupations Article;
(3)
A social worker or caseworker of any public or private health or social services agency or provider; or
(4)
An advocate from a domestic violence or sexual assault prevention or assistance program.
(h)
“Report by a qualified third party” means a report based on information received by a qualified third party while acting in a professional capacity that:
(1)
Indicates that the tenant or a legal occupant is seeking assistance as a result of an act of abuse;
(2)
Includes the following elements:
(i)
The name of the tenant or legal occupant;
(ii)
A statement that the tenant or legal occupant is a victim of abuse;
(iii)
The date, time, location, and a brief description of the incident;
(iv)
The name and physical description of the alleged offender, if known;
(v)
The name and address of the employer of the qualified third party;
(vi)
The licensing entity and license number of the qualified third party, if the qualified third party is required to be licensed; and
(vii)
The signature of the qualified third party, under seal of a notary public; and
(3)
Is signed and acknowledged by the tenant or legal occupant under penalty of perjury.