How Maine Renters Can Dispute a Water Bill
If you’re renting in Maine and have received a water bill that seems too high or incorrect, it’s important to know your rights and the steps you can take to resolve the issue. Maine’s housing laws outline clear rules for how utilities—including water—must be billed and what tenants can expect from landlords and utility providers. This guide will make the process as clear and accessible as possible.
Understanding Utility Responsibilities in Maine Rentals
The first step is to check your lease agreement. In Maine, landlords generally must specify in the rental contract who is responsible for paying utilities such as water and sewage.[1] If the lease is unclear, state law can fill in the gaps.
- Landlords cannot bill tenants for utilities that are not individually metered or apportioned fairly.
- Utilities provided to common areas (like a shared laundry room) are usually the landlord’s responsibility.
Common Water Bill Disputes
- Unexpectedly high charges: Bills that are much higher than normal
- Repairs and leaks: Water wasted due to unresolved plumbing problems
- Miscalculated charges: Landlords charging for services not detailed in the lease or billing multiple tenants unfairly
If any of the above describes your situation, you have options under Maine’s Landlord-Tenant Act.
Your Options for Resolving Water Bill Disputes
If you believe your water bill is incorrect or unfair, follow these steps to resolve the problem:
- Review your lease: Confirm exactly what you agreed to for utilities.
- Request a breakdown: Ask your landlord or the water utility for a detailed statement of charges and meter readings, if applicable.
- Document everything: Keep copies of bills, payments, repair requests, and communications with your landlord or utility provider.
- Notify your landlord in writing: Politely state that you believe the bill is incorrect and ask for clarification or correction. Under Maine law, your landlord has a duty to maintain services and respond to issues like leaks.[1]
Filing a Complaint with Maine’s Tenancy Tribunal
If informal steps do not resolve your dispute, you may file a complaint or take further action through official channels. In Maine, housing disputes are typically handled by the Maine Judicial Branch, specifically local District Courts.[2] In utility-related matters, the Maine Public Utilities Commission (MPUC) is the official body for complaints about water companies.
Official Maine Forms for Water Bill Disputes
- MPUC Consumer Complaint Form:
- When to use: When your dispute is with the municipal water company or utility provider and has not been resolved directly.
- Example: If your water bill is unusually high and you suspect a meter error, complete this form to start an official investigation.
- File a Consumer Complaint with the MPUC
- Maine Judicial Branch: Small Claims Complaint (CV-7):
- When to use: If you seek to recover money overcharged or want to enforce a right after failed resolution attempts.
- Example: You were billed for a leak that was your landlord’s responsibility and want reimbursement.
- Download the Small Claims Complaint (CV-7)
Legislation That Protects Maine Renters
Maine tenants are protected by the Maine Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Title 14, Chapter 709). This law outlines your rights and your landlord’s duties regarding utilities, required disclosures, and dispute resolution.[1]
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Do Maine landlords have to give notice before billing tenants for water?
Yes. If you are being billed for water separately, your lease should specify this in advance. Any changes must be noted in a written agreement. - Can my landlord shut off my water if I dispute a bill?
No. Landlords are prohibited from intentionally interrupting essential services, including water, as a means of collection or retaliation. If this occurs, you may have legal grounds to file a complaint. - Can I deduct a disputed water charge from my rent?
Not without written agreement or a court order. Withholding rent for disputed utility charges can result in eviction unless you follow the legal process through court or the Maine Public Utilities Commission. - What if the water bill is high because of a leak?
Landlords are responsible for timely repairs. If a leak causes your water bill to spike and you reported the problem, you may not be liable for the excess charge. Keep records and report promptly. - Who can help me if I can’t resolve a water bill dispute?
You can file a complaint with the Maine Public Utilities Commission or seek resolution in District Court. Assistance is also available from Maine’s Pine Tree Legal Assistance and local housing authorities.
Key Takeaways for Maine Renters
- Always review your lease to confirm utility billing terms.
- If you believe your water bill is incorrect, document everything and try to resolve it with your landlord or utility first.
- Know your right to file a formal complaint—state agencies are there to help.
With clear steps and the support of Maine’s laws and agencies, water bill disputes can be addressed promptly and fairly.
Need Help? Resources for Renters
- Maine Public Utilities Commission – Consumer Assistance
- Maine State Housing Authority
- Pine Tree Legal Assistance – Free legal help for Maine renters
- Maine Judicial Branch District Courts
- Maine Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
Categories
Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & SituationsRelated Articles
- Maine Rental Utility Responsibilities: Tenant & Landlord Laws · June 21, 2025 June 21, 2025
- Maine Tenant Rights: Utility Shutoff Protections Explained · June 21, 2025 June 21, 2025
- Understanding Sub-Metering and Master Meter Laws for Maine Renters · June 21, 2025 June 21, 2025
- Can Landlords Charge for Trash and Recycling in Maine? · June 21, 2025 June 21, 2025
- Maine Renters’ Guide to Internet Service Rights · June 21, 2025 June 21, 2025
- RUBS Utility Billing: What Maine Renters Need to Know · June 21, 2025 June 21, 2025
- Challenging High Utility Bills as a Renter in Maine · June 21, 2025 June 21, 2025
- Can Maine Landlords Shut Off Electricity for Non-Payment? · June 21, 2025 June 21, 2025
- Maine Renters: How Solar Power Credits Can Lower Your Utility Bills · June 21, 2025 June 21, 2025