Cure or Quit Notices in Maine: Your Rights as a Tenant

If you're renting a home or apartment in Maine and receive a "Cure or Quit Notice" from your landlord, it's important to know what your rights are and what steps you can take. This guide explains how these notices work under Maine law, what actions you can take, and connects you to official resources to support your next steps.

What Is a Cure or Quit Notice?

A Cure or Quit Notice is a formal written warning from your landlord telling you that you've broken a term of your lease or rental agreement. "Cure" means you have the chance to fix (or "remedy") the problem—like paying overdue rent or stopping a prohibited activity—within a certain number of days. "Quit" means you must move out if you don't correct the violation within that time period.

When Might You Receive a Cure or Quit Notice?

• Unpaid rent (typically when rent is late by at least 7 days)
• Violating rules like pet restrictions
• Unauthorized occupants
• Disturbance of neighbors or illegal activity

In Maine, the law requires landlords to give tenants an official notice before starting the eviction process, except in some specific circumstances.

How Much Notice Is Required?

The notice period depends on the type of lease violation. For nonpayment of rent, Maine law requires at least 7 days' written notice. For some other violations, 7 days' written notice is also standard, but lease agreements may state longer periods. Always check your written lease for specifics.

What Must a Maine Cure or Quit Notice Include?

• The specific reason for the notice (e.g., unpaid rent for March 2024)
• What you must do to fix the problem ("cure")
• The deadline by which you must cure the violation (e.g., seven days from receipt)
• A statement that if you don’t fix the problem, the landlord may start eviction proceedings

If a landlord does not include these details, the notice may not be legally valid. For more, visit the Maine Housing: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities page.

Official Forms: Maine 7-Day Notice to Quit (For Cause)

• Form name: 7-Day Notice to Quit
• When it's used: Landlords use this when a tenant has not paid rent or violated another major lease term. You do NOT have to fill this form out yourself as a renter, but you should review it carefully if you receive one.
• Practical example: If you receive a 7-Day Notice to Quit for late rent, you typically have 7 days from the date you receive the notice to pay the full amount or move out.
• Download the official Maine 7-Day Notice to Quit form (courts.maine.gov)

What Should You Do If You Receive a Cure or Quit Notice?

• Read the notice carefully: Check the reason for the notice and the deadline to act.
• Contact your landlord: If you think there's a mistake or need more time, communicate in writing with your landlord.
• Fix the problem: Pay overdue rent, remove an unauthorized pet, or correct other issues if you can.
• Keep records: Save all correspondence, receipts, and copies of the notice.
• Get help if needed: Reach out to legal aid or tenant advocacy services (see the Resources section below).

What Happens If You Don’t Cure the Violation?

If you do not resolve the issue or move out by the deadline in the notice, your landlord can file for eviction (called a "Forcible Entry and Detainer" action) with the Maine District Court. You will receive further court papers and have the opportunity to present your side in front of a judge.^[1]

Relevant Legislation

Cure or Quit Notices and eviction procedures in Maine are outlined in the Maine Revised Statutes Title 14, Section 6002 (Notice of Termination of Tenancy) and related state laws.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much time do I have to fix the problem after getting a Cure or Quit Notice in Maine?
   In most cases, you have 7 days from receiving the notice to cure the violation or move out, especially for nonpayment of rent. Always verify the exact deadline stated in your notice and lease agreement.
2. What if I disagree with the reason for the notice?
   Respond in writing to your landlord, explaining why you believe the notice is wrong. Keep copies of all communications. If the issue is not resolved, you may present your evidence if the case goes to court.
3. Do I have to move out if I pay the overdue rent within the 7 days?
   No. If you pay the full overdue amount within the deadline, your landlord cannot evict you for that reason.
4. Can I get more time to fix the violation or move out?
   It's up to your landlord, but you can always ask for more time. If granted, get any agreement in writing.
5. Who handles eviction hearings in Maine?
   All residential eviction (Forcible Entry and Detainer) hearings are handled by the Maine District Court. Learn more about procedures from the Maine Judicial Branch - Guide to Civil Evictions.

Key Takeaways

• A Cure or Quit Notice in Maine gives you a set time to fix a lease problem or move out.
• You usually have at least 7 days to take action, especially for unpaid rent.
• If you cure the issue in time, eviction proceedings cannot be started on that violation.

Always read notices and your lease carefully. If in doubt, seek legal assistance promptly.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maine Judicial Branch: Guide to Civil Eviction — Official court overview of your rights and the eviction process.
• Maine Housing: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities — Information on renter protections and landlord duties.
• Pine Tree Legal Assistance — Free legal help and resources for tenants.
• Maine District Court — Handles all eviction filings and hearings.
• Maine Statutes: Notice of Termination of Tenancy – Title 14 Section 6002

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1. Maine Revised Statutes Title 14, Section 6002 – Termination of Tenancy
2. Maine Judicial Branch – Civil Eviction Guide
3. Maine Housing – Tenant Rights

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