§ 16–2933. Commencement; service; notice by posting.

(a)(1) A cotenant in a tenancy in common may initiate an action under this subchapter by filing a complaint and shall name all cotenants as defendants.

(2) In addition to any persons required to be named as defendants pursuant to paragraph (1) of this subsection, the plaintiff may name as defendants all persons unknown, claiming any legal or equitable right, title, estate, lien, or interest in the real property described in the complaint adverse to the plaintiff's title, or any cloud on the plaintiff's title to the real property.

(3) The court on its own motion or on motion of any party may issue an order to require joinder of any additional parties that are necessary or proper.

(b) This subchapter shall not be construed to limit or affect the method by which service of a complaint in a partition action may be made.

(c)(1) If the court orders notice by publication, the plaintiff, not later than 10 days after the court's determination, shall post and maintain, while the action is pending, a conspicuous sign on the real property that is the subject of the action.

(2) The sign shall state that the action has commenced and identify the name and address of the court and the street address of the real property, or other common designation, if any.

(3) The court may require the plaintiff to publish on the sign the name of the plaintiff and the known defendants.