Illegal Rental Advertisement Language in Maine: What Renters Should Know

Looking for rental housing in Maine? It's important to know that both landlords and real estate agents must follow state and federal laws when advertising rentals. But what exactly is considered 'illegal language' in rental ads, and how can you protect yourself from discrimination?

Understanding Discriminatory Language in Maine Rental Ads

In Maine, it is illegal to advertise rental housing using words or phrases that limit or discourage certain groups of people based on protected characteristics. This is part of both federal law and the Maine Human Rights Act.^[1] Landlords cannot express a preference, limitation, or discrimination in any statement—whether in print or online—based on:

• Race or color
• National origin or ancestry
• Religion
• Sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation)
• Disability
• Familial status (like having children)
• Age
• Marital status
• Receipt of public assistance (e.g., Section 8 vouchers)

Examples of illegal language in rental ads include statements like "no children," "adults only," "English speakers only," "Christian home," or "no Section 8." Any phrase that suggests a preference for or against people because of the above traits is likely illegal.

What Ads Can and Cannot Say: Common Examples

Rental listings in Maine cannot include language such as:

• "No kids," "single adults only," or "ideal for young professionals"
• "Must speak English" (unless English is essential for safety, such as operating dangerous equipment)
• "Christian couple only" or "Jewish preferred"
• "No Section 8, no vouchers"
• "Females only" or "males only" (unless there is a communal living exception)

What ads can include are objective descriptions or requirements not related to protected classes, such as "no smoking," "credit check required," or "pet-free property."

Reporting Discriminatory Rental Advertising in Maine

If you suspect a rental ad in Maine is discriminatory, you have the right to file a formal complaint. Complaints about rental discrimination—including illegal advertising language—are handled by the Maine Human Rights Commission (MHRC). You do not need a lawyer to start this process.

Official Form: Maine Human Rights Commission Intake Questionnaire

• Form Name: Housing Intake Questionnaire
• When it's used: If you believe a rental ad contained illegal, discriminatory language (for example, an ad stating "no children"), you can fill out this form to start your complaint with the MHRC.
• Download the Housing Intake Questionnaire

After submitting this form, the MHRC will review your situation and may investigate or help you resolve the issue. For more details, see how to file a complaint with the Maine Human Rights Commission.

Which Tribunals Handle Rental Discrimination Disputes?

In Maine, the primary authority for housing discrimination complaints is the Maine Human Rights Commission.

Relevant Rental Laws Governing Advertising

• Maine Human Rights Act, 5 M.R.S. § 4581-A – Unlawful Housing Discrimination
• Federal Fair Housing Act

These laws protect renters from discriminatory practices at all stages of renting, including how rentals are advertised.

Frequently Asked Questions: Rental Advertisement Discrimination in Maine

1. Can a Maine landlord say "no Section 8" in an ad?
   No. Maine law prohibits landlords from discriminating on the basis of income derived from public assistance, including Section 8 vouchers.^[1]
2. What should I do if I see an illegal ad?
   Take a screenshot or save a copy of the ad. Then, file a complaint with the Maine Human Rights Commission using their Housing Intake Questionnaire.
3. Can age restrictions ever appear in Maine rental ads?
   Generally, no. However, licensed senior housing may note age restrictions if they comply with state and federal housing for older persons exemptions.^[1],[2]
4. Who enforces rental advertising laws in Maine?
   The Maine Human Rights Commission investigates and enforces fair housing laws, including rental advertising.
5. Can a landlord require background or credit checks?
   Yes, landlords may require objective criteria like background or credit checks, as long as these requirements apply equally to all applicants.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• Maine law protects you from discriminatory or exclusionary language in rental ads.
• If you see or experience discrimination, you can file a complaint with the Maine Human Rights Commission—using their Housing Intake Questionnaire.
• Retain proof of discriminatory ads, such as screenshots or saved documents.

If in doubt, check the Maine Human Rights Commission for guidance or support.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Maine

• Maine Human Rights Commission (MHRC) – File complaints or get info on housing discrimination
• MaineHousing – State housing authority for rental programs and tenant help
• Maine Human Rights Act: Housing Discrimination Statute
• U.S. Department of Justice: Fair Housing Act

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1. [1] Maine Human Rights Act, 5 M.R.S. § 4581-A
2. [2] Federal Fair Housing Act
3. [3] Maine Human Rights Commission

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