Maryland § 14-204
Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 14-204, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 14-204.
(a) Except as provided in subsection (d) of this section, a lien may be enforced and foreclosed by the party who obtained the lien in the same manner, and subject to the same requirements, as the foreclosure of mortgages or deeds of trust on property in this State containing a power of sale or an assent to a decree.
(b) If the owner of property subject to a lien is personally liable for alleged damages, suit for any deficiency following foreclosure may be maintained in the same proceeding, and suit for a monetary judgment for unpaid damages may be maintained without waiving any lien securing the same.
(c) Any action to foreclose a lien shall be brought within 12 years following recordation of the statement of lien.
(d) (1) (i) In this subsection the following words have the meanings indicated.
(ii) “Common ownership community” means:
1. A condominium as defined in § 11–101 of this article; or
2. A homeowners association as defined in § 11B–101 of this article.
(iii) “Governing body” means a person who has authority to enforce the declaration, articles of incorporation, bylaws, rules, or regulations of a common ownership community.
(2) Notwithstanding the declaration, articles of incorporation, bylaws, rules, or regulations of a common ownership community, a governing body may foreclose on a lien against a unit owner or lot owner only if the damages secured by the lien:
(i) Consist of:
1. Delinquent periodic assessments or special assessments and any interest; and
2. Reasonable costs and attorney’s fees directly related to the filing of the lien that do not exceed the amount of the delinquent assessments, excluding any interest; and
(ii) Do not include fines imposed by the governing body or attorney’s fees or costs related to recovering the fines.
(3) This subsection does not preclude a governing body from using any other means to enforce a lien against a unit owner or lot owner.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 14-204
What does Maryland Code § 14-204 cover?
Section 14-204 is part of the Maryland Code, the codified statutory law of Maryland. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Maryland § 14-204?
A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 14-204" (Maryland). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Maryland law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Maryland official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Maryland attorney.
How does Maryland § 14-204 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Maryland can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Maryland.