Can Maine Landlords Shut Off Electricity for Non-Payment?

If you’re renting in Maine and worried about your electricity, it’s important to understand both your rights and your landlord’s legal limits. While keeping up with rent and utility payments is essential, sometimes challenges happen. Here’s what state law says about landlords shutting off electricity for non-payment, what tenants can do, and where to find reliable support.

Who Pays for Electricity in Maine Rentals?

Whether you or your landlord pays for utilities like electricity depends on your lease agreement. If your lease says you are responsible for electricity, you pay the utility directly. If the landlord pays, the cost is usually included in your rent or billed separately.

  • If you pay the utility directly: The utility company, not your landlord, holds the contract and only they can disconnect service for non-payment.
  • If the landlord pays and includes utilities: Landlords must maintain essential services unless specific legal conditions apply.

Is It Legal for a Landlord to Shut Off Electricity in Maine?

In most situations, a landlord cannot legally shut off your electricity as a way to collect unpaid rent or utilities. This is called an “illegal utility shutoff” or “self-help eviction,” and is strictly prohibited under Maine law.

  • Maine Revised Statutes Title 14, Section 6014 states that a landlord must not willfully interrupt or cause the interruption of electrical service to a tenant except for temporary repairs or emergencies1.
  • If your landlord tries to force you out or punish you by shutting off electricity, you may have the right to sue for damages.

Exceptions When Electricity May Be Turned Off

There are only a few scenarios under state law where disruption can occur:

  • Temporary Repairs or Emergencies: Electricity can be interrupted only as necessary for repairs, maintenance, or in emergencies.
  • If You Are the Utility Customer and Don’t Pay the Bill: Only the utility company, not the landlord, may disconnect service for non-payment. The utility must follow strict notice and hardship rules, outlined by the Maine Public Utilities Commission.
  • After Lawful Eviction: Once a legal eviction is completed, the new possession holder (usually the landlord) may control the utilities.
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If Your Landlord Illegally Shuts Off Electricity

If your landlord interrupts your electricity outside the legal exceptions, you have the right to legal remedies:

  • Send your landlord a written demand to restore service.
  • Collect evidence (photos, communication records).
  • Contact the Maine District Court to seek an order restoring service and possible damages.

Official Tribunal for Tenant Complaints

Residential tenancy disputes in Maine are typically handled through the Maine District Court system2.

Key Form: Complaint for Illegal Utility Shutoff (Maine)

  • Form Name: Maine District Court Civil Complaint
  • How to Use: Tenants can use this form to start a court case for restoration of utilities and claim damages if a landlord violates utility access laws.
  • Example: If your electric power is cut off by the landlord without notice due to a dispute over unpaid utilities, fill out the Civil Complaint form and file it with your local District Court to request a judge’s intervention.
If you face a shutoff, gather written proof, act quickly, and speak with a local legal aid resource or the court for guidance.

Relevant Legislation

Action Steps: What to Do if Your Electricity Is Shut Off Illegally

  • Document the shutoff with photos and a log of events.
  • Write your landlord to demand immediate restoration of electricity.
  • If service is not restored, fill out and file the Civil Complaint at your local District Court.
  • Bring all documents and evidence to the hearing.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can my landlord shut off my electricity for not paying rent in Maine?
    No. Under Maine law, landlords cannot use utility shutoff as a method to force payment or eviction. Only a judge can order removal after a legal process.
  2. What if my utilities are included in my rent?
    If electricity is included in your rent, your landlord is responsible for maintaining service—except for temporary repairs or emergencies.
  3. Who do I contact if my landlord shuts off my power?
    Contact your local District Court immediately. You can also reach out to a legal aid organization or the Maine Office of the Attorney General.
  4. Can the electric company disconnect me for not paying the bill?
    Yes, but only with proper notice and process. Your landlord cannot direct the utility company to disconnect your service.

Key Takeaways

  • Landlords in Maine cannot legally shut off electricity to force payment or eviction.
  • If your landlord controls and illegally interrupts service, act quickly and follow the legal process.
  • Use official forms and courts to resolve disputes and get help restoring utilities.

Need Help? Resources for Renters


  1. Maine Revised Statutes Title 14, Section 6014
  2. Maine District Court
Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Renter Rights USA

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.