Illegal Self-Help Evictions in Maine: Renter Protections

If you rent your home in Maine, it's important to know that landlords cannot evict you by force or intimidation. Understanding what counts as an illegal self-help eviction can help you stay protected and resolve disputes safely.

What Is a Self-Help Eviction?

A self-help eviction happens when a landlord tries to make a renter move out without following the proper legal process. Instead of getting a court order, the landlord takes matters into their own hands, which is against Maine law.

Examples of Illegal Self-Help Evictions in Maine

The following actions by landlords are strictly forbidden and considered illegal forms of eviction in Maine:

• Changing the locks to keep you out.
• Shutting off utilities such as electricity, heat, or water to force you to leave.
• Removing your personal belongings from your rental unit.
• Threatening you or using physical force to make you leave.
• Blocking access to your home in any way.

Only a court can order an eviction, and only a law enforcement officer can carry out a legal eviction after a judge's order.

Legal Process for Eviction in Maine

If a landlord wants to evict a renter, they must follow the formal process set out in the Maine Revised Statutes, Title 14, Chapter 709 - Forcible Entry and Detainer^[1]. The official steps include:

• Providing a written notice (like a 7-Day Notice to Quit for nonpayment or a 30-Day Notice for term lease termination).
• If the renter does not leave, filing a complaint with the court for a Forcible Entry and Detainer (FED) action.
• The court schedules a hearing where both landlord and renter can present their side.
• If the court sides with the landlord, a formal writ of possession is issued and the sheriff or constable may carry out the eviction.

What You Should Do If Facing a Self-Help Eviction

If your landlord is trying to lock you out, turn off your utilities, or force you out in any other way without a court order, you have rights and options:

• Stay calm and document everything. Take pictures or videos and save all communications with your landlord.
• Contact local law enforcement if you are locked out or feel threatened. Police may intervene to stop illegal lockouts.
• Reach out to the local housing court, Maine Judicial Branch, or Maine State Housing Authority for further help and advice.

Official Forms and When to Use Them

• Forcible Entry and Detainer Complaint (CV-007):
  View and download the official form.
  Example: If you have received a formal eviction notice but believe the eviction is not justified, attend the court hearing using this process to share your defense.
• Writ of Possession (CV-166):
  View and download the official form.
  Example: This document is issued by the court to authorize law enforcement to remove a tenant. Only after a court hearing can this be used—landlords cannot act on their own.

All official eviction processes are handled by the Maine District Court.

Your Rights Under Maine Tenancy Law

Maine law protects tenants from illegal actions by landlords. Key legislative protections are found in the Maine Revised Statutes, Title 14, Chapter 709^[1]. Landlords who break the law may owe you damages. If you need further help, you can also contact the Maine State Housing Authority for guidance.

1. Can my landlord change the locks or shut off utilities to make me leave?
   

   No. Lockouts, shutting off utilities, or removing your belongings without a court order is illegal in Maine. Only a sheriff or constable, with a court-issued writ of possession, can remove renters.

2. What should I do if my landlord is trying to evict me illegally?
   

   Gather evidence, call local police if you're locked out, and contact the Maine District Court or Maine State Housing Authority for assistance and next steps.

3. What court handles evictions in Maine?
   

   The Maine District Court is the official tribunal for residential eviction cases (Forcible Entry and Detainer).

4. Are there any official forms I need if I'm facing eviction?
   

   You may receive a Forcible Entry and Detainer (FED) complaint. Attend the court hearing and bring any relevant documentation to defend yourself.

5. Can I sue my landlord if they try an illegal self-help eviction?
   

   Yes. Maine law allows renters to sue for damages if a landlord tries an illegal lockout or utility shutoff. Consult with the court or a legal aid service for help.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maine State Housing Authority – Housing information and renter assistance
• Pine Tree Legal Assistance – Free legal help for renters
• Maine District Court – Information on filing or responding to eviction actions
• Maine Revised Statutes – Chapter 709: Forcible Entry and Detainer

---

1. Maine Revised Statutes, Title 14, Chapter 709 – Forcible Entry and Detainer
2. Forcible Entry and Detainer (CV-007) – Maine Courts
3. Writ of Possession (CV-166) – Maine Courts
4. Maine District Court – Evictions Info
5. Maine State Housing Authority

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 & Situations