Maryland has more than 518 self-storage facilities, serving a statewide population of 5,976,000. The Maryland Self Storage Association has helped spearhead several changes to our state’s lien laws and as of this writing, only Maryland and Washington State have successfully enacted all the major lien law changes supported by the National SSA and most state associations.
With the exception of eliminating the requirement to advertise auction notices in newspapers, the MDSSA was able to enact most of their agenda in 2013. Just last year, they were again successful, this time taking care of the newspaper requirement.
As an example to how these modernization efforts help with today’s storage owners and operators, take into account that at one time, operators were required to send official correspondence by certified mail, a process costing an excessive amount of both time and money. Siding with the industry, and the recognition that more modern methods are available, the Maryland General Assembly agreed that certified mail was no longer the most assured method of contact with a delinquent customer, and now allows verified mail and email notifications. Other changes include the ability to charge $20 or 20 percent in late fees, whichever is greater, contractual value limitations and simpler methods for disposing of a vehicle in a lien situation.
The MDSSA is ever vigilant in protecting the industry from unnecessary laws or regulations. If you have questions or concerns regarding the industry’s relationship with the government, please feel free to contact us.
Reach Out
Please reach out to us if you have an issue or want to notify us about an issue within the self storage community.