Maryland § 19-208

Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 19-208, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 19-208.

    (a)    A policy of homeowner’s, fire, farmowner’s, or dwelling insurance that provides coverage for additional living expenses incurred by an insured as a result of a covered loss may not be issued, sold, or delivered in the State if the policy contains language that limits coverage for additional living expenses to a period of time that is less than 12 months.

    (b)    A clause in a policy of homeowner’s, fire, farmowner’s, or dwelling insurance that purports to limit coverage for additional living expenses incurred by an insured as a result of a covered loss to a period of time that is less than 12 months is void and unenforceable.

    (c)    Notwithstanding subsection (a) of this section, the Commissioner may require an insurer to provide coverage for additional living expenses under a policy of homeowner’s, fire, farmowner’s, or dwelling insurance for up to 24 months if the Commissioner finds that covered property remains uninhabitable due to delays in repair or replacement caused:

        (1)    by the insurer; or

        (2)    by factors beyond the control of the insured.

    (d)    Nothing in this section shall be construed to:

        (1)    prohibit or prevent the enforcement of a monetary limit of liability for additional living expenses under a policy of homeowner’s, fire, farmowner’s, or dwelling insurance;

        (2)    prohibit an insurer from denying coverage for additional living expenses if the carrier determines that at the time the additional living expenses were incurred the covered property was not unfit to live in; or

        (3)    prohibit an insurer from denying coverage for additional living expenses on the grounds that the covered property was unfit to live in at the time that the additional living expenses were incurred because of delays in repair or replacement caused by the insured.

Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 19-208

What does Maryland Code § 19-208 cover?

Section 19-208 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 § 19-208?

A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 19-208" (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 § 19-208 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.