COVID-19 Update
If you’ve been laid off as a result of the pandemic or if you’ve seen a substantial decrease in your income, the prospect of staying current with your rent payments as a tenant has likely been a struggle. Jurisdictions throughout the nation have responded with varying forms of rental housing relief. The State of Maryland and the District of Columbia are classic examples of the lack of clarity that exist for renters nationwide as a result of COVID-19.
The Center for Disease Control, (CDC) recently announced an order effective September 4 through December 31, which prohibits “payment-related” evictions of tenants who declare under penalty of perjury an income of less than $99,000 for singles and $198.000 for couples, financial harm from the pandemic, and susceptibility to homelessness or crowded shelters if evicted. You must also prove that you sought governmental assistance to be approved under this federally sponsored relief program.
The CDC order is quite frankly a temporary response to this ongoing crises. Renters are still required to pay back rent once the CDC order is closed out on January 01, 2021. Our firm is positioned to assist renters in applying for this relief program. We understand that this is a temporary measure nevertheless it will provide relief for some which is better than no relief at all during these precarious times.
- https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/cares/assistance-for-small-businesses
- https://www.meetcharlescounty.com/covid19-overview
Prohibition on Evictions in Maryland and the District of Columbia
Upon showing proof that you have suffered “a substantial loss of income resulting from the Corona virus”, as a tenant residing in the District of Columbia or the State of Maryland you should not be subject to any actions for eviction. On March 16, 2020, Governor Larry Hogan ordered until his March 5, 2020 State of Emergency Order is terminated, a prohibition on residential evictions was established. The D.C. Council approved on March 17, 2020 legislation that in addition to prohibiting residential evictions, also covers “commercial” evictions. Maryland updated its order to include commercial properties on April 3, 2020.
Our office can assist you if your landlord is threatening to evict you during this crisis. Bottom line if your landlord is demanding rent payment at this time, you are covered. If you can pay your rent, do it, otherwise call our law offices if you are in need of assistance to respond to any demands for rental payments during these precarious times. Call us toll free at 877-564-7266.
