Maryland COVID-19 Eviction Protections: What Still Applies?

If you rent your home in Maryland and are worried about eviction or lease violations, it’s important to know what COVID-19 protections remain in place this year. While many emergency protections and moratoriums have ended, some rights and processes from the pandemic continue to impact Maryland renters. This article explains what eviction protections are still effective, what steps landlords must follow, and how you can access official forms and resources.

Understanding the End of COVID-19 Emergency Orders

Most statewide eviction moratoriums in Maryland related to COVID-19 ended with the expiration of the state’s emergency status in August 2021. However, some pandemic-era tenant protections and changed eviction procedures may still apply in certain cases, particularly if you experienced financial hardship from the pandemic.

Current Eviction Rules and COVID-19 Related Hardship in Maryland

The main protection that remains for renters involves how courts consider eviction filings where nonpayment of rent was due to COVID-19 financial hardship. Maryland law requires landlords to use the official legal process to evict tenants—they cannot lock you out or remove your belongings without a court order^[1].

Key Points for Renters

• No self-help evictions: Only the court can order you to leave. Landlords cannot lock you out themselves.
• Nonpayment of rent cases: Judges may consider if you couldn’t pay rent due to COVID-19 hardship—especially for cases filed during or soon after the emergency period.
• Right to a hearing: You have the right to attend your court hearing and explain your circumstances.

Official Maryland Housing Forms for Renters

If you are facing eviction, it’s essential to respond promptly with the right forms. Here are two key Maryland court forms:

• Failure to Pay Rent Complaint (Form DC-CV-082):
  Used by landlords to start an eviction case for unpaid rent. This is the official court complaint form.
  View the Failure to Pay Rent Complaint (DC-CV-082)
  Example: If your landlord begins a nonpayment eviction, they must serve you this form as part of the court process.
• Motion to Stay Eviction (Form DC-CV-081):
  Use this to ask the court for extra time, for example if you have a COVID-19 hardship, a disability, or need more time to move.
  View the Motion to Stay Eviction (DC-CV-081)
  Example: If the court rules against you but you need extra days before moving out, you may submit this form right away.

Where Are Eviction Cases Handled?

Eviction and lease violation cases are decided by the Maryland District Court (Small Claims/Landlord-Tenant Division). Only a judge may make an official eviction order.

Important Maryland Tenant Laws and Protections

Maryland’s main tenancy rules are found in the Maryland Real Property Code § 8-401 and § 8-402. These laws explain the process your landlord must follow for eviction, your rights as a renter, and protections against unlawful actions.

What to Do If You Face Eviction

• Review any court papers or notices from your landlord carefully.
• Respond quickly, and attend all scheduled court dates.
• Consider filing a Motion to Stay Eviction if you need more time.
• Seek free legal help (see Resources section below).

The Maryland courts and the Attorney General’s Office offer guides and checklists for tenants. See the Maryland Tenant Rights Guide for more details.

FAQ: Maryland COVID-19 Eviction Protections

1. Are there still any eviction bans in Maryland due to COVID-19?
   Statewide eviction bans have ended, but courts may consider COVID-19 hardship when deciding certain nonpayment cases.
2. Does my landlord have to accept rent assistance?
   Maryland landlords are not legally required to accept new rent assistance applications, but many did during the emergency period. Check with your county agency for any local programs still providing help.
3. Can my landlord evict me without a court order?
   No, only the court may order eviction. Lockouts or “self-help” evictions are illegal in Maryland.
4. What documents should I bring to court to show COVID-19 hardship?
   Bring proof of lost income, unemployment benefits, medical records, or any documents showing you were financially impacted by COVID-19.
5. How do I get more time before being evicted?
   You may file a Motion to Stay Eviction (Form DC-CV-081) at your local District Court if you need extra time due to hardship.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maryland District Court Landlord-Tenant Division – For case status and forms
• Maryland Attorney General – Tenant Rights Guide
• Maryland Legal Aid – Tenant Services
• Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development – Renters’ Rights

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1. Maryland Real Property Code § 8-401 (Eviction Procedures)
2. Maryland District Court Landlord-Tenant Information
3. Maryland COVID-19 Renters Updates

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