Legal Services

• Notice of Defect Assistance: Coalition lawyers and case managers are available to provide assistance completing and filing a Notice of Defect. A Notice of Defect is the first step used to notify a landlord of hazardous or defective conditions within a rental property. The Notice of Defect covers all peeling, chipping, flaking paint, as well as structural defects and may include other hazards such as rodent or pest infestation.
• Rent Escrow Representation: If a landlord fails to safely repair the conditions noted in the Notice of Defect, tenants can file for rent escrow. Anyone can file for Rent Escrow and Coalition lawyers can provide statewide guidance and/or representation in district court.
• Compliance Assistance: Maryland Law requires that ALL Maryland rental properties built before 1950 be registered with the Maryland Department of the Environment and in full compliance with the Maryland Lead Risk in Housing law. Property owners not in compliance are encouraged to contact the Coalition for a ‘compliance packet’ and further information.
• Tenant’s Rights Education: Legal services offers Tenant’s Rights Education classes statewide to explain the Maryland lead laws to tenant groups, community associations, code enforcers and other interested parties.

For more information please contact intake@leadsafe.org

back to Services page