How to reclaim rental abandoned by tenant in Baltimore City?

[Lisa Montana]

Hello. Does anyone know the best way for a landlord to reclaim an abandoned rental in Baltimore City?

I'm a buy-and-hold investor and landlord. A tenant seems to have abandoned a SFR 14 days before their lease ends. They won't return my calls. They left piles of trash and food on the floor, so I want to get trash removers and housecleaners in as soon as possible to reduce turnaround time between tenants.

Do I need to wait until their lease ends (in 14 days)? Is it legal to remove rotting food that might damage the property before the lease ends?

Do I have to start an eviction process to be able to go in and remove their stuff? Their last month's rent is late and they clearly have no intention of paying it.

I've never dealt with this particular situation before, so I'd appreciate any suggestions.

[David Wandel]

We have had this happen a few times. Once six months before the lease was up. Our attorney told us that if they have abandoned the property we can take back possession. He said to make sure that we document it with photos. Specifically, photos of bedding , personal hygiene items, food, etc . lack of these items should be proof enough of abandonment. We then change the locks and take back possession. We also check weekly on properties that are in the eviction process because often the tenant will move out prior to the eviction.