Are Hidden Cameras Allowed in Maine Rental Properties?

If you're renting a home or apartment in Maine, you may wonder about your right to privacy—especially regarding the presence of hidden cameras or other surveillance by landlords. Understanding the legal landscape in Maine helps ensure your privacy is respected and you know what to do if you think your rights have been violated.

Can Landlords Legally Install Hidden Cameras in Rentals?

In Maine, renters are protected by both federal and state privacy laws. Generally, landlords cannot install hidden cameras inside the living areas of your rental without your knowledge or consent. This protects your reasonable expectation of privacy, especially in spaces like bedrooms and bathrooms.

What Maine Law Says About Surveillance in Rentals

The relevant Maine law is the Maine Revised Statutes, Title 14: Property, Chapter 709 – Trespass, Nuisances, and Landlord and Tenant.^[1] Under these statutes, landlords are prohibited from entering your unit except in specific circumstances, such as:

• Making repairs (usually with at least 24 hours' notice)
• Inspecting the premises
• To show the property to potential renters or buyers

There are no circumstances under state law that allow for hidden video or audio recording inside the private living areas of your home.

What About Common Areas?

Landlords may install security cameras in shared areas, such as hallways, stairwells, laundry rooms, or building entrances, provided these are visible and not placed where tenants would expect privacy (such as bathrooms or inside individual rental units).

Notice and Consent Requirements for Landlords

Maine law does not allow landlords to record audio or video in your unit without your permission. Audio recording without consent is specifically prohibited under Maine’s wiretapping and eavesdropping statute.^[2]

• Hidden cameras in bedrooms, bathrooms, or living rooms are not allowed, even if you are notified later.
• Visible security cameras in common areas must not infringe on your private life or activities.
• If you find a hidden camera, you have the right to request its removal and, if refused, may have grounds to file a formal complaint.

Practical Example: Filing a Privacy Complaint

If you suspect your landlord has installed a hidden camera inside your unit or in a place where you expect privacy, you can:

• Document the camera's presence (photos, location, date found)
• Notify your landlord in writing and ask for its immediate removal
• If your request is ignored, submit a complaint to the Maine Judicial Branch – District Court (which handles landlord-tenant disputes) or seek guidance from the Maine State Housing Authority

Relevant Official Forms for Maine Renters

• Maine District Court: Complaint (Forcible Entry and Detainer)
  CV-007 Complaint for Forcible Entry and Detainer
  Use this form if you are forced out of your home or if your landlord is violating your right to quiet enjoyment, including violating privacy with surveillance or unauthorized entry. For example, if you find a hidden camera and the landlord refuses to remove it or retaliates against you, you may use this complaint to begin a case in District Court.
• Request for Repairs or Complaint Notification
  While Maine does not provide a specific state complaint form for privacy violations, tenants should notify their landlord in writing and keep a copy. Templates and guidance are available at the Maine State Housing Authority – Rights & Obligations page.

Summary: Maine law prioritizes your right to private enjoyment of your living space, and there are formal ways to address violations.

What To Do If You Find a Hidden Camera

• Take photos and notes about where and when you found the device.
• Ask your landlord, in writing, for an explanation and removal.
• If you are unsatisfied or your landlord is unresponsive, consider mediation, filing a formal complaint, or seeking legal advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord put cameras inside my rental unit in Maine?
   No, landlords cannot put cameras inside your private rental spaces, like bedrooms or living rooms, without your consent. Doing so violates your right to privacy and Maine law.
2. Are cameras allowed in common areas of my building?
   Yes, visible security cameras are typically allowed in common areas like hallways and entrances, but not where tenants expect privacy (such as bathrooms).
3. What should I do if I find a hidden camera in my rental?
   Document its location, notify your landlord immediately, and if not resolved, file a complaint with the Maine District Court or report to the Maine State Housing Authority.
4. Is my landlord required to give me notice before entering my rental?
   Yes, except in emergencies, landlords must provide at least 24 hours' notice before entering your rental property.
5. Who can help me if my landlord violates my privacy rights?
   The Maine District Court handles landlord-tenant disputes. The Maine State Housing Authority also offers resources and guidance for renters.

Key Takeaways for Maine Renters

• Your landlord is legally prohibited from placing hidden cameras inside your private living areas.
• Surveillance is only allowed in shared, non-private areas, and should not include audio recording without consent.
• If you discover a hidden camera, document it and use official forms to file a complaint if needed.

Always prioritize your privacy, and don’t hesitate to seek help or clarification from state agencies if you suspect a violation.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maine State Housing Authority – Rights & Obligations: Overview of renter and landlord rights, plus advice on privacy and complaint procedures.
• Problem Resolution (Maine State Housing Authority): Guidance if you have disputes with your landlord over privacy or other rental issues.
• Maine District Court – Landlord & Tenant Disputes: The official tribunal for residential tenancy disputes.
• Maine Revised Statutes – Landlord and Tenant Law

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1. Maine Revised Statutes, Title 14, Chapter 709 – Landlord and Tenant
2. Maine Revised Statutes, Title 15, Chapter 93 – Interception of Wire and Oral Communications

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