(a) A contractual lien or contractual security interest on behalf of the landlord in the tenant’s household goods is not enforceable unless perfected before the effective date of this chapter.

(b) A landlord may enforce collection of rent by distress only pursuant to Chapter 39 of Title 27; however, the tenant may raise defenses to the issuance of a distress warrant pursuant to the provisions of this chapter or the rental agreement and may take advantage of the property exemptions found in § 15-41-30.