diff --git a/openpype/hosts/maya/api/lib_template_builder.py b/openpype/hosts/maya/api/lib_template_builder.py
index 855c72e361..34a8450a26 100644
--- a/openpype/hosts/maya/api/lib_template_builder.py
+++ b/openpype/hosts/maya/api/lib_template_builder.py
@@ -40,6 +40,9 @@ def create_placeholder():
     placeholder_name = create_placeholder_name(args, options)
 
     selection = cmds.ls(selection=True)
+    if not selection:
+        raise ValueError("Nothing is selected")
+
     placeholder = cmds.spaceLocator(name=placeholder_name)[0]
 
     # get the long name of the placeholder (with the groups)