Maryland § 8-202
Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 8-202, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 8-202.
(a) For the purposes of this section, a “lease option agreement” means any clause in a lease agreement or separate document that confers on the tenant some power, either qualified or unqualified, to purchase the landlord’s interest in the property.
(b) (1) A lease option agreement to purchase improved residential property, with or without a ground rent:
(i) If executed after July 1, 1971, shall contain the following statement in capital letters: “THIS IS NOT A CONTRACT TO BUY.”; and
(ii) If executed on or after July 1, 2018, shall also contain the following statement in capital letters and in close proximity to the tenant’s signature line:
“THIS AGREEMENT IS AN INTEGRAL PART OF YOUR LEASE AND IS GOVERNED BY TITLE 8 OF THE REAL PROPERTY ARTICLE OF THE ANNOTATED CODE OF MARYLAND AND A TENANT OR PROSPECTIVE TENANT SHALL HAVE ALL APPLICABLE RIGHTS AND REMEDIES PROVIDED UNDER THAT TITLE.”.
(2) In addition, the agreement shall contain a clear statement of its purpose and effect with respect to the ultimate purchase of the property which is the subject of the lease option.
(c) If a lease option agreement fails to comply with subsection (b) of this section and is otherwise enforceable, the lease, the lease option agreement, or both may be voided at the option of the party that did not draft the lease option agreement.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 8-202
What does Maryland Code § 8-202 cover?
Section 8-202 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 § 8-202?
A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 8-202" (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 § 8-202 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.