Maryland Utility Shutoff Protections for Renters

Worried about your electricity, gas, or water being disconnected? If you're renting in Maryland and facing utility shutoff, it's important to understand your rights, the protections available to tenants, and what steps you can take to keep essential services running in your home.

Understanding Maryland's Utility Shutoff Laws for Renters

In Maryland, public utilities (like electricity and gas) are regulated by the Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC). The PSC enforces strict rules on when and how utility companies can disconnect services. Water utilities are often overseen by local governments, so rules may vary by county or city.

Utilities cannot be shut off for unpaid rent alone, and there are specific notice and protection periods that utility companies must follow. Maryland also provides extra protections for renters in certain situations, such as during cold weather or if there is a medical emergency in the home.

When Can Utilities Be Shut Off?

Before a utility company can disconnect service in Maryland, they must:

• Send written notice at least 14 days before the shutoff date.
• Provide a second notice at least 3 days before disconnection (by phone or in person).
• Offer information on payment plans and assistance programs.
• Not shut off service on a Friday, weekend, state holiday, or the day before a holiday.

Importantly, a landlord is prohibited from shutting off a tenant’s utilities as a form of eviction under Maryland law.

Special Protections for Renters

• Winter Moratorium: From November 1 to March 31, additional restrictions apply; utilities cannot shut off heat without meeting extra requirements.
• Serious Illness or Medical Need: Tenants with a serious illness can prevent shutoff by submitting a doctor's certification using the proper form.
• Bill Disputes: If you dispute a bill, the utility company generally cannot disconnect service while your complaint is pending with the PSC.

Some utilities may offer further hardship programs or payment plans—check with your provider or the Maryland Department of Human Services for details.

Key Forms and How to Use Them

• Certification of Serious Illness (Medical Certification Form):
  When to use: If anyone in your home has a serious illness or condition that would worsen without utilities, ask your doctor to complete the official Maryland PSC Medical Certification Form.
  • How to use: Have your doctor fill out the form and send it to your utility company before the scheduled shutoff date. Example: Your child needs oxygen equipment that requires electricity—having your pediatrician complete and submit this form can delay shutoff for up to 30 days.
• Complaint Filing (PSC Complaint Process):
  When to use: If your utility company is shutting off service and you believe it is unlawful or you did not receive proper notice, file a complaint directly with the PSC. Use their Consumer Complaint resources.
  • How to use: File online, by phone, or by mail with supporting documents (bills, notices, forms). For instance, if you believe your landlord's actions led to a shutoff, submit your complaint with a timeline of events and copies of notices received.

What the Law Says

The main state law governing rental utility protections is the Maryland Code, Real Property § 8-211. This law addresses what landlords must provide when utilities are included in rent, and spells out renters' remedies if utility service is interrupted.

For all utility shutoff rules applying to regulated companies, refer to COMAR Title 20, Subtitles 31 & 32 (Code of Maryland Regulations).

If Your Utilities Are Shut Off — What to Do

If your service is disconnected in violation of Maryland law (for example, without proper notice or due to a landlord's actions), you can file a formal complaint with the Public Service Commission. In urgent situations, you may also be able to seek help from local legal aid or tenant advocacy groups.

The Maryland Residential Tribunal

For disputes related to your rental unit (like a landlord unlawfully interrupting utilities), cases are handled by the Maryland District Court, specifically the Landlord-Tenant Division. The Maryland Public Service Commission handles disputes with regulated utility providers. Always check the appropriate jurisdiction for your issue.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord turn off my utilities if I don't pay rent?
   No, Maryland law prohibits landlords from shutting off utilities to force a tenant to leave. Only a utility provider can interrupt service, and only after following legal notice requirements.
2. Are there special winter protections against utility shutoff?
   Yes, from November 1 to March 31, extra steps must be taken before disconnecting heat or electricity, especially if you qualify for energy assistance or have a medical condition.
3. What do I do if I get a utility shutoff notice?
   Contact your utility company immediately to ask about payment plans, assistance programs, or submit a Medical Certification Form if needed. You can also file a complaint with the Maryland Public Service Commission if you weren't given proper notice.
4. How can I stop a shutoff for medical reasons?
   Have your healthcare provider complete the Medical Certification Form and submit it to your utility company right away.
5. Who handles utility-related disputes for Maryland renters?
   The Maryland Public Service Commission manages utility disputes. Rental housing disputes (including illegal utility shutoff by a landlord) are heard in District Court - Landlord-Tenant Division.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Maryland Renters

• You have the right to utility shutoff protections and proper notice in Maryland.
• Landlords cannot disconnect your utilities to force you out; only regulated utility companies may do so, and must follow strict legal procedures.
• Special protections exist for vulnerable tenants, including those with medical needs or during winter months.

If you receive a notice or have your utilities shut off, act quickly and use Maryland’s official resources to defend your rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC) – Utility complaints, Medical Certification Form, rules and regulations
• Maryland Office of Home Energy Programs – Energy assistance for low-income renters
• Maryland District Court – Landlord-Tenant – File emergency petitions for illegal utility shutoff by landlords
• Maryland Attorney General – Landlord-Tenant Information
• Maryland Legal Aid – Free legal help for eligible renters

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1. Maryland Real Property Code § 8-211 (Tenant Rights and Utilities)
2. COMAR Title 20, Maryland Utility Regulations
3. PSC Medical Certification Form (Serious Illness)
4. Maryland Public Service Commission – Consumer Complaints
5. Maryland District Court – Landlord-Tenant Division

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