(a) (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated. (2) 'Affected dwelling unit' has the meaning stated in § 7–309 of the Public Utilities Article. (3) 'Landlord' has the meaning stated in § 7–309 of the Public Utilities Article. (4) 'Tenant' has the meaning stated in § 7–309 of the Public Utilities Article. (5) 'Utility service' has the meaning stated in § 7–309 of the Public Utilities Article. (6) 'Utility service provider' has the meaning stated in § 7–309 of the Public Utilities Article. (b) A tenant may deduct from rent due to a landlord the amount of payments made to a utility service provider for utility service if: (1) An oral or written lease for an affected dwelling unit requires the landlord to pay the utility bill; and (2) (i) The tenant pays all or part of the utility bill, including payments made on a new utility service account; or (ii) The tenant pays any security deposit required to obtain a new utility service account. (c) A tenant’s rights under this section may not be waived in any lease.
Maryland Legal Code