Baltimore woman inherited her dad's house but then found a $228,000 water bill taped to her door. Now she can't sell it

But the debt Moore inherited proved shocking: a $228,000 water bill taped to the front door of her father’s home. Even worse — she says the city’s Department of Public Works (DPW) told her that “my property is responsible for this bill, and I can’t sell it until it’s paid in full.”

One water meter and a $228,000 problem

At first glance, it all seems like a big mistake. According to WBFF, the bill is a result of the Springwood Estates community, where Moore’s father lived, only operating on a single water meter for all the homes. That meter is attached to Moore’s father’s house.

Regina Johnson, the president of the Springwood Estates Homeowners Association, told WBFF that she didn’t know how the water bill got so high given the HOA collects water payments from the residents to pay it off each month.

But that’s little solace for Moore or her realtor, Lisa Ciofani, who said that they “provided the covenants and restrictions” that show the payments fall to the HOA. She added that, “I don’t understand how they can hold her liable for 37 properties.”

The Baltimore DPW didn’t reply to a request for comment by press deadline. Moneywise was unable to reach the Springwood Estates Homeowners Association.

Still, WBFF quoted a senior advisor for the Baltimore City Council president as saying that “the lien will remain in place until the full balance is paid.”

What to do if you inherit a home with a hidden lien

While the situation with Moore’s father’s home is unique, experts note that, after inheriting a home or property, you can reach out to a county clerk’s office or title search company to confirm if any liens exist on it.