What is the Legal Eviction Process in Maryland?

Evicting a tenant in Maryland requires several specific steps as part of the legal process. Not following state and local guidelines creates liability for the landlord. So, to avoid additional litigation and evict the tenant in the most efficient way possible, follow the steps below.

Provide the Tenant a Notice of Termination
File a Complaint in District Court
Summons is Issued by the Court
Attend the Court Hearing
Removal Through a Warrant of Restitution

Provide the Tenant a Notice of Termination

Before filing a suit in court, you must provide the tenant with proper notice of your intent to evict them from the property. This notice informs them of the reason for the lease termination and provides a set timeframe in which they must vacate. Generally, this is anywhere from 3 to 30 days, depending on the situation and state restrictions. That said, landlords have a few different types of notice to choose from depending on the circumstances. These common forms of eviction notices include:

Cure or Quit – Tenant must correct a lease violation within a certain time or must vacate.
Pay or Quit – Tenants must pay rent within usually three to five days or vacate.
Unconditional Quit – Tenant must vacate without an opportunity to fix the violation or catch up on rent.

Some good news: The State of Maryland has opened up a phase 3 for Covid 19 Relief Rental Assistance programs. You have to go to your court office online, fill out the form for the back rent and utilities and send it to your owner or landlord. You will also need to send them verification that you have applied and submitted it. If you are approved, the money will be dispersed to the owner. If approved you will also stay any eviction proceedings for 90 days. It also relieves you for any civil or small claims court proceedings if you are approved in full. These funds are on a first come, first serve basis. It benefits all renters and owners, if you move quickly to apply.