Maryland Statewide Rule

Maryland HOA Assessment Liens & Foreclosure

Heavy RestrictionsApplies statewide across Maryland (2026)

Key Facts

Lien statute: Maryland Contract Lien Act, Real Prop. §§ 14-201–206
Foreclosure method: Same as a mortgage / deed of trust (§ 14-204)
Foreclosure basis: Assessments only, not fines
Notice before lien: Written notice within 2 years of breach (§ 14-203)
Disclosure to buyers: Real Prop. § 11B-106 (fees + delinquencies)

Last verified: August 20, 2026

Summary

A Maryland HOA collects delinquent assessments through a contract lien under the Maryland Contract Lien Act (Real Prop. §§ 14-201 to 14-206), and that lien can be foreclosed like a mortgage. The Homeowners Association Act (Real Prop. Title 11B) requires sellers to disclose current and delinquent assessments to buyers.

(a) (1) As provided in the declaration, a lot owner shall be liable for all homeowners association assessments and charges that come due during the time that the lot owner owns the lot.

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Full Breakdown

If the declaration provides for a lien, the HOA may record an assessment lien under the Maryland Contract Lien Act after written notice to the owner within 2 years of breach (Real Prop. § 14-203). Real Prop. § 14-204 lets the lien "be enforced and foreclosed... in the same manner, and subject to the same requirements, as the foreclosure of mortgages or deeds of trust." An HOA foreclosure may rest only on delinquent assessments plus limited costs and fees not exceeding the assessments, NOT on fines, and must begin within 12 years of recording. Separately, Real Prop. § 11B-106 requires the seller to disclose current monthly assessments, the prior year's total, and any delinquencies.

Violations & Penalties

Unpaid assessments can become a recorded lien foreclosable like a mortgage (Real Prop. § 14-204). Recoverable costs and attorney's fees may not exceed the delinquent assessments, and fines cannot be the basis for foreclosure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a Maryland HOA foreclose on my home for unpaid dues?

Yes. Under Real Prop. § 14-204 an HOA assessment lien can be foreclosed "in the same manner" as a mortgage. The foreclosure must rest on delinquent assessments, not on fines, and must be brought within 12 years of recording the lien.

What must a home seller tell me about HOA assessments?

Under Real Prop. § 11B-106 the seller must disclose the current monthly assessment, the prior fiscal year's total, and whether any HOA fees on the lot are delinquent, generally before or within 20 days of the contract.

Can the HOA add attorney's fees to my lien?

Yes, but limited. The Contract Lien Act allows reasonable costs and attorney's fees directly related to filing the lien, and they may not exceed the amount of the delinquent assessments (excluding interest).

Sources

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