Maryland Rules for Pass-Through Utility Charges in Mobile Home Parks

If you live in a Maryland mobile home park and get separate bills for utilities like water, sewer, or electricity—sometimes called "pass-through" charges—you may wonder if this is allowed, and whether there are rules protecting you. This article explains mobile home utility charges in Maryland, what the law says, and what you can do if you think you are being overcharged.

Understanding Pass-Through Utility Charges

Pass-through utilities are when a park owner (the landlord) bills tenants for utilities the landlord buys in bulk from a supplier, dividing the cost among residents. This is common when homes do not have separate meters, or when parks manage the main billing from utility companies. The main laws covering mobile homes in Maryland are found in the Maryland Mobile Home Parks Act and the Maryland Landlord and Tenant law.¹

Is Pass-Through Utility Charging Allowed in Maryland?

Maryland law does allow mobile home park owners to bill tenants for utilities, but there are strict rules and disclosures:

• The rental agreement (lease) must clearly state how utilities are billed and what charges apply.²
• Utility charges must be based on either actual use (if sub-metered) or a fair allocation method. Arbitrary or excessive fees are not permitted.
• Residents must be able to inspect the master utility bill from the provider upon request.
• Utility charges cannot be used to disguise a rent increase.

For details, see Section 8A-212 of the Maryland Mobile Home Parks Act.¹

What Should Appear in Your Lease?

Your lease must clearly explain:

• Which utilities you are responsible for
• How your bill is calculated (e.g., individual meter, share of park-wide bill)
• The payment process and dispute resolution options

If these details are missing, ask your park manager for a lease update or clarification in writing.

Disputing Pass-Through Utility Charges in Maryland

If you believe you are being unfairly charged for utilities, or if charges are not transparent:

• Request to see the master utility bills from the park owner
• Communicate your concerns in writing and keep copies
• Contact your local Office of Consumer Protection or the Maryland Attorney General if the issue is not resolved
• If necessary, file a formal complaint with the appropriate authority (see next section for forms and contacts)

Official Complaint Forms and Tribunals

Maryland renters and mobile home residents can seek help through:

• Maryland Office of the Attorney General – Consumer Protection Division.
  File a complaint using the Consumer Complaint Form. This form helps if you think a park is violating the Maryland Mobile Home Parks Act (such as improper utility charges). After filing, the Division may mediate or advise on next steps.
• County-level Landlord-Tenant Tribunals: For issues like rent escrow or illegal charges. In Montgomery County, for example, contact the Office of Landlord-Tenant Affairs.

Example: Using a Consumer Complaint Form

• Form Name: Consumer Complaint Form
• When Used: When you believe your park is charging utilities unfairly, not disclosing billing properly, or otherwise violating state law.
• How to Submit: Download the Consumer Complaint Form, fill it out with your information and supporting documents (such as your lease and bills), and mail or file online as instructed. The Office will contact you about your case.

If you pursue a formal dispute about rental charges or evictions, the district court in your Maryland county is the tribunal that decides landlord–tenant cases. More details are on the Maryland Courts: Landlord-Tenant Information page.³

FAQ: Pass-Through Utility Charges in Mobile Home Parks (Maryland)

1. Can my Maryland mobile home park charge me separately for utilities?
   Yes, if it is clearly written in your lease and follows state law about fair and transparent billing.
2. What if I do not understand my utility bill or it seems too high?
   You can ask to see the original utility bills from the provider. If you still have concerns, contact the Maryland Office of the Attorney General or your county’s landlord-tenant office.
3. Can a park owner charge more than the actual cost for utilities?
   No, the park owner may only charge what the utility costs or a fair allocated share. They cannot use utility charges to make a profit or as a hidden rent increase.
4. How do I file a complaint about utility overcharges?
   Download the Consumer Complaint Form, fill it out, and send it with supporting documents to the Maryland Office of the Attorney General.
5. Who oversees landlord-tenant disputes in Maryland?
   Landlord–tenant disputes are generally handled by your local District Court and (for complaints) the Maryland Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division. See the Maryland Courts Landlord-Tenant Information for guidance.

Summary of Key Takeaways

• Maryland mobile home parks can bill for utilities, but must follow fair and transparent rules
• Utility charges cannot conceal rent increases or exceed actual costs
• If you suspect a violation, you have the right to file a formal complaint and seek assistance

Understanding your rights helps you avoid unfair charges and strengthens your position if you need to challenge a landlord’s actions.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maryland Office of the Attorney General – Consumer Protection Division (complaints, advice, and mediation)
• Maryland Courts – Landlord-Tenant Self-Help Center
• Maryland Department of Housing – Manufactured Home Information
• Montgomery County Office of Landlord-Tenant Affairs (for county-level support)

---

1. Maryland Code, Real Property Article – Title 8A (Mobile Home Parks)
2. Maryland Code, Real Property Article – Title 8 (Landlord and Tenant)
3. Maryland District Court Landlord-Tenant Information

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations