After a tenant has been evicted in Washington County, MD, and there is still an outstanding balance even after applying the tenant’s security deposit, are my only options for collection limited to small claims court and utilizing a collection agency?

They are slow to respond, pay pennies on the dollar to low-qualified contractors, and often reject claims for things you thought was covered.

You don’t want to be aware of a $4,000 claim on a property you own?  

They filed a claim but it doesn't appear like they'll be covered enough as I don't believe they had flood insurance.

For example, I often see Buyers purchase property thinking there is a $1,000 deposit but then the tenant claims it was $2,000 because they paid the last month's rent.

However, I read through plenty of clients complaining about horrendous claims process. 

Sometimes tenants can be a total nightmare...That said, I think you'll have a very difficult time convincing a judge to award you a claim of unpaid rents through the end of the lease term, particularly if you are in the business of landlording.As real estate professionals, we chose to take on the risk of eviction-related vacancies. 

This is very important on the back end if you have to impose claims against the security deposit (at least in Florida).4) Read your management agreement thoroughly and know the cancelation policy. 

@Simone Montague-Jackson Spark's main claim to fame is that they have created what they believe is a loophole to allow non-accredited investors to invest in Reg.

If the amount is under $5k they can take you to small claims court.