Eviction Laws in Maryland
Non-payment of rent eviction in Maryland
When a tenant falls behind on rent in Maryland, the landlord must first serve a 10-day pay-or-quit notice. This gives the tenant 10 days to either pay the full amount owed or vacate. If the tenant does neither, the landlord can file an eviction lawsuit — called an unlawful detainer or summary possession action — in Maryland court.
A court order is required before any lockout. The landlord cannot change the locks, shut off utilities, or remove the tenant's belongings before winning a judgment.
Lease violation eviction in Maryland
For non-payment lease violations — unauthorized pets, excess occupants, noise complaints, property damage — the landlord must give 30 days notice. The tenant has 30 days to cure (fix) the violation. If corrected within that window, the tenancy continues. If not cured, the landlord may proceed with filing.
Terminating month-to-month tenancy in Maryland
To end a month-to-month rental agreement without cause, the landlord must give 60 days written notice. The tenant's notice requirement may differ — check your lease agreement.
Important Maryland eviction details
Maryland: For non-payment, the landlord files in District Court; no formal pre-suit notice period is required by statute (10 days is commonly cited). 30-day notice for lease violations. Baltimore City, Montgomery County, and Prince George's County have additional local tenant protections.
What counts as an illegal eviction in Maryland?
In Maryland, a landlord who attempts to evict a tenant without following the legal process commits an illegal (self-help) eviction. This includes:
- Changing the locks without a court order
- Removing doors, windows, or the tenant's belongings
- Shutting off utilities (electricity, water, heat)
- Harassment designed to pressure the tenant to leave
Self-help evictions are prohibited in all 50 states and DC. Tenants who experience an illegal lockout can typically seek emergency relief from a court and may be entitled to damages.