Landlord Showings During Move-Out: Maine Renter Rights

As a renter planning to move out in Maine, you may wonder if your landlord can show your apartment to new tenants while you’re packing. Maine law recognizes your right to privacy but also allows landlords certain access under specific conditions. Here’s what you should know about showings, notice requirements, and your options.

Your Right to Privacy and Landlord Access

In Maine, renters have the right to quiet enjoyment and privacy in their homes. However, your landlord does have limited rights to enter the property to show it to prospective tenants or buyers—especially if you’ve given notice to end your lease or received a termination notice.

• The landlord must give at least 24 hours’ advance notice before entering, except in emergencies.
• Showings must occur at a reasonable time and for a legitimate purpose, such as viewing by potential renters or buyers.
• Notice may be delivered in writing, orally, or electronically, but written is preferred for clarity.

These rules are set out in the Maine Revised Statutes, Title 14, Section 6025: Access to Premises.^[1]

What to Expect During Showings

Your landlord can schedule apartment showings while you are still living (and packing) in the unit. Here’s what you can expect according to Maine law:

• You should receive at least 24 hours’ notice before each visit.
• Showings must be conducted at reasonable times—usually during daytime hours unless you agree otherwise.
• Your landlord or their agent should accompany all prospective renters or buyers during viewings. Unaccompanied visits are generally not permitted.

If your landlord repeatedly enters without proper notice, at unreasonable hours, or harasses you during your move-out, you can seek help. Maine law prohibits harassment or abuse of access rights.

Relevant Forms and How to Use Them

Notice to Terminate Tenancy (Form)

• Name: Notice to Quit (no official form number)
• When Used: If you wish to end your tenancy, you must provide your landlord with a written "Notice to Quit." For month-to-month rentals, Maine law typically requires 30 days’ written notice.^[2]
• Where to Get It: Sample templates are available through the Maine Attorney General’s Sample Letters page. There is no state-mandated PDF, but these samples meet statutory requirements.

For tenants dealing with improper landlord entry or harassment, you may use the following steps to document the issue and seek assistance from the Maine State Housing Authority or seek mediation through local services.

What Is the Residential Tenancy Tribunal in Maine?

There is no dedicated tenancy tribunal in Maine. Most landlord-tenant disputes are handled in the Maine District Court. If you need to file a complaint or defend against one, this is typically where proceedings occur regarding security deposits, notice disputes, or breach of access rules.^[3]

Action Steps if You Have Concerns

• Request all showing notices in writing for clear documentation.
• If a landlord enters without proper notice, politely remind them of the 24-hour notice rule under Maine law.
• If problems continue, contact the Maine Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division or seek legal advice.

1. What if my landlord needs to show the apartment multiple times?
   Landlords must provide at least 24 hours’ notice each time. If the frequency becomes unreasonable or disruptive, you may request a more consolidated showing schedule or file a complaint if necessary.
2. Can I refuse entry for showings if I’m uncomfortable?
   You may negotiate showing times or request a delay, but outright denial is only allowed in extreme circumstances. The landlord’s right to reasonable access is protected under Maine law.
3. Who should accompany prospective tenants or buyers during showings?
   The landlord or their agent should always accompany visitors—never allow unknown individuals unaccompanied access.
4. What do I do if my landlord enters without notice?
   Document each incident, remind your landlord of the 24-hour rule, and consider contacting the Maine Attorney General’s office if violations persist.
5. Where can I get official tenant forms in Maine?
   While no state-issued forms exist, you can use templates provided by the Attorney General’s Office for notices and complaints.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maine State Housing Authority – Tenant Resources: Information and renter protections
• Maine Attorney General – Tenant Rights Page: Official tenant rights information and complaint contacts
• Maine District Courts: Where landlord-tenant disputes are handled
• Pine Tree Legal Assistance: Free legal aid for renters

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1. Maine Revised Statutes, Title 14, Section 6025: Access to Premises
2. Maine Revised Statutes, Title 14, Section 6002 (Notice to Quit requirement)
3. Maine District Courts

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