Maryland Eviction Laws - 2024 Eviction Process

With the expiration of the pandemic-era eviction moratoriums long passed and rental costs skyrocketing, Maryland eviction rates are on the rise.

For landlords and property managers, that can mean dealing with lengthy —and costly—legal processes. But with an understanding of how evictions work in Maryland, you’ll be able to navigate these situations more effectively.

Here’s what you need to know about Maryland eviction laws.

What Are The Eviction Laws In Maryland?

Illegal evictions are actions taken by a landlord or property manager to remove a tenant from a rental property without involving the court system.

Maryland eviction laws govern how a landlord must evict a tenant, and disregarding these laws could mean paying the tenant damages plus attorney’s fees.

The following actions are considered illegal evictions in Maryland:

• Self-help Evictions: In Maryland, it's illegal for a landlord to force a tenant out of their home without a court order. This means landlords cannot change the locks, turn off utilities, or remove the tenant's belongings to make them leave (§ 8-208.1).
• Retaliatory Evictions: A landlord cannot evict a tenant for legally-permitted actions like complaining to relevant authorities about the property conditions, requesting necessary repairs, or for joining or organizing a tenants' union (§ 8-208.1).
• Evicting Without Proper Notice: Maryland law requires landlords to provide tenants with advanced written notice before they can file an eviction lawsuit, known in Maryland as a summary ejectment. The notice must specify the reason for the eviction and give the tenant a certain amount of time to remedy the situation (if applicable).
• Illegal Discrimination: Landlords cannot evict a tenant based on race, religion, gender, age, disability, national origin, familial status, or sexual orientation. This is illegal under both federal and Maryland state law.
• Evicting Without a Valid Reason: Under Maryland eviction laws, a landlord must have a valid reason for eviction. Legitimate reasons include non-payment of rent, violation of lease terms, expired or no lease, and imminent danger to oneself, others, or the property.

Maryland Eviction Laws Quick Reference Table

How To Evict Someone In Maryland: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Establish grounds for eviction.

First, identify a legally valid reason for the eviction. In Maryland, the following are considered legal grounds for eviction:

• Nonpayment of rent
• Lease violations
• Expired/no lease
• Imminent danger

Step 2: Give tenant written notice of your intent to evict.

Maryland eviction laws require landlords to provide tenants with written notice before they can file an eviction lawsuit in court. The content and notice period may depend on the reason for eviction. See the table above for details on eviction notices.

Step 3: File an eviction lawsuit in District Court.

If the situation is not remedied (such as by paying or fixing the lease violation), the next step is to file a complaint with your county’s District Court.

At the court, you will need to pay a small fee (15-$25) and file a form that specifies the grounds for eviction. The tenant will then be served with a summons, typically by a sheriff or other authorized process server.

Step 4: Attend the eviction hearing and judgment.

At the court hearing, both you (or your representative) and the tenant will have the opportunity to present your cases. It's important to bring all relevant documentation, such as the lease agreement, payment records, and any correspondence with the tenant.

Step 5: Receive judgment for possession.

If the judge rules in your favor, you'll receive a judgment for possession. However, this doesn't mean you can immediately remove the tenant.

You have to wait for the expiration of the appeal period, then request a warrant of restitution from the court.

Step 6: Request a warrant of restitution.

After the 10-day appeal period has lapsed, you may request a warrant of restitution. This is an order from the court which allows the sheriff to evict the tenant.

Once this warrant is granted, you can schedule the eviction with the sheriff's office.

Step 7: Regain control of property.

On eviction day, a sheriff will be present to oversee the process and ensure that it's conducted properly. As a landlord, you cannot carry out the eviction yourself—it must be done by a law enforcement officer.

This is a general guide and may not include every detail or nuance of the process. Maryland eviction laws are subject to change, and local counties may have additional regulations. Therefore, it's highly recommended to consult with an expert when dealing with an eviction.

How Long Does An Eviction Stay On Your Record?

While an eviction doesn’t appear on your credit report, late rent and fees can appear on your credit report for up to seven years.

Need Help With The Maryland Eviction Process? Eviction Services Are Available

Between the day-to-day demands of property management and time associated with eviction suits, Hemlane can help. We offload things like rent collection, legal notices, and retaining counsel.

Receive the rent you’re owed while minimizing costly court fees. Explore our eviction services and on-demand delinquency management today.