We Offer Eviction Services in Howard County

Do you need guidance on how to evict a tenant in Howard County, Maryland?This step-by-step guide on the Howard County eviction process explains how to legally and respectfully remove a tenant or unauthorized occupant from your property using county-compliant procedures, rental laws, legal notices, and court filings.

Eviction Support in Howard County, Maryland

We provide full support throughout the Howard County eviction process for properties in Zone 2.
Our experienced team prepares and files all documents, attends hearings, and ensures full compliance with Howard County rental laws.

Quick Overview:

• Rental License Required: Yes
• Service Coverage Area: Yes
• Court Filing Fee: $305

Our Services Include:

• Drafting and filing the “Failure to Pay Rent” complaint
• Sending a formal collections notice to the tenant
• Representing landlords during court hearings
• Coordinating post-judgment enforcement with the Sheriff

Get Started Now Begin your Howard County eviction process today.

County Contacts & Court Information

• District Court: 3451 Courthouse Drive, Ellicott City, MD 21043
• Sheriff (Eviction Unit): (410) 313-4212
• Rental License Office: (410) 313-2455
• Inspection Office: (410) 313-1830

Helpful Links:

• Howard County Government Website
• Landlord & Tenant Resources
• Howard County Rental License Application

How to Evict a Tenant in Howard County, Maryland

1. Ensure You Have a Valid Rental License

To begin the Howard County eviction process, your property must have a valid Howard County Rental License.
This applies to all non-owner-occupied properties, including:

• Apartments
• Condominiums
• Townhomes
• Mobile homes
• Shared housing units

License Details:

• Fee: $93.50 per unit (valid for two years)

Before Applying:

• Appoint a local agent if you live out of state
• Confirm all bedroom egress windows are compliant
• Install and maintain smoke detectors per Howard County rental laws

Apply here: Howard County Rental License Application

2. Serve the Appropriate Legal Notice

Unless you're proceeding for nonpayment of rent, a written notice must be provided to the occupant before filing in court.

3. File the Eviction Case in Court

Once notice has been served (or immediately for rent cases), file your complaint with the Howard County District Court.

Documents Required:

• Lease agreement
• Proof of notice (if applicable)
• Valid Howard County Rental License
• Rent ledger or payment record

Court Address: 3451 Courthouse Drive, Ellicott City, MD 21043

4. Attend the Court Hearing

Hearings are usually scheduled within 7–10 days after filing.
If successful, you’ll receive a Judgment for Possession, allowing you to proceed with the Howard County eviction process legally.

5. Request a Warrant of Restitution

Wait four business days after the judgment. Then, file for a Warrant of Restitution to initiate the eviction through the Sheriff.

• Sheriff’s Fee: Approximately $40
• Eviction Date: Scheduled by the Sheriff’s Office
• Sheriff’s Contact: (410) 313‑4212
• Contact the Sheriff’s Office: Howard County Sheriff’s Office

6. Complete the Sheriff-Supervised Eviction

• On the scheduled day, the Sheriff will oversee the eviction.
• The property owner or manager must provide movers to remove any belongings.
• Note: If the tenant pays in full before the eviction, the process may be legally halted.

How to Evict Someone from Your House in Howard County

For guests, roommates, or relatives, the process differs slightly:

1. Determine if they are a legal tenant.
2. Provide a 30-day notice to vacate.
3. File a Wrongful Detainer or Tenant Holding Over case.
4. Attend court and follow Sheriff’s procedures.

Never attempt self-help eviction (e.g., changing locks or removing belongings). Always follow Howard County rental laws.

Rental License Requirements in Howard County

A Howard County Rental License is mandatory for nearly all leased properties.

Applies to:

• Townhomes
• Single-family homes
• Apartments and condos
• Shared or rooming units

Checklist:

• Appoint a local agent (if out of state)
• Verify all basement egress windows meet safety code
• Install working smoke detectors

Fees:

• Application Address: 3430 Courthouse Drive, Ellicott City, MD 21043
• Phone: (410) 313‑2455
• More Info: Inspections & Permits

Howard County Rental Laws

Understanding Howard County rental laws is essential for both landlords and tenants. These laws are designed to protect property owners’ rights while ensuring tenants are treated fairly under Maryland state law.

Key Rental Law Highlights:

Security Deposits:

• • Cannot exceed two months’ rent.
  • Must be held in an interest-bearing account.
  • Landlords must return deposits within 45 days after the tenant vacates.

Rent Increases:

• • Must be provided with at least 90 days’ written notice.
  • Rent cannot be increased during an active lease term unless the lease allows it.

Maintenance Responsibilities:

• • Landlords are required to keep the property habitable and in compliance with Howard County housing codes.
  • Tenants must maintain cleanliness and report major damages.

Right to Enter:

• • Landlords must give reasonable notice before entering a rental unit, except in emergencies.

Anti-Retaliation Protections:

• • It’s illegal for a landlord to retaliate against a tenant who reports code violations or exercises legal rights.

Rental Licensing Compliance:

• • All rented properties must have a valid Howard County Rental License before leasing.
  • Violating licensing laws can result in fines or denial of eviction rights in court.

By following Howard County rental laws, landlords can ensure that every eviction or lease enforcement is fully compliant and legally protected.

Eviction Timeline in Howard County, Maryland

Final Tips on How to Evict a Tenant in Howard County, Maryland

• Always maintain a valid Howard County Rental License
• Follow Howard County rental laws closely
• Use the correct notice type and period
• Prepare all documentation in advance
• Never attempt eviction without court authorization

Start Your Eviction Case Today

We’re here to help you navigate the Howard County eviction process quickly, legally, and respectfully.
Our team will:

• Prepare and file your legal documents
• Represent you in court
• Coordinate the eviction with the Sheriff

Click Here to Get Started