Maine Hotel and Motel Tenancy Rights for Renters

If you're renting or living long-term in a hotel or motel in Maine, it's important to know your rights and the specific legal protections available. The rules for hotel and motel tenancies can be different from standard apartment rentals, but Maine law does offer tenants certain rights after a period of time. Here, we break down what you need to know to protect your housing situation.

Who Is Considered a Tenant in Maine Hotels and Motels?

In Maine, guests of hotels and motels typically do not have full tenant rights right away. Under the Maine Revised Statutes Title 14, §6001, you become a tenant entitled to eviction protections if you have stayed for more than 30 consecutive days in the same room or unit. This means after 30 days, you are no longer just a guest—you are a tenant with additional legal rights.

• Before 30 days: You are considered a hotel/motel guest, and the operator can ask you to leave with short notice.
• After 30 days: You are legally considered a tenant and cannot be removed without following proper eviction procedures under Maine law.

Eviction Rules for Hotel and Motel Tenants in Maine

Once you have lived in a hotel or motel for 30 or more days, eviction must follow the formal court process. The owner is required to give you proper notice under Maine’s Landlord-Tenant Act (Title 14, Chapter 709). Most commonly, this includes providing a written Notice to Quit:

• 7-day notice: For specific issues such as not paying your room fee (rent).
• 30-day notice: For no-cause terminations if you're in general compliance.

After receiving notice, the owner must go to court to seek an order of eviction, and you have the right to a court hearing. The official tribunal handling these cases is the Maine District Court.

What Forms Are Used in Hotel/Motel Tenant Evictions?

• Notice to Quit (no official form number): Used by hotel or motel operators to formally ask you to leave. They must serve this notice in writing, specifying the reason and notice period.
  Example: If you have stayed more than 30 days and missed a payment, you should receive a 7-day Notice to Quit before the operator can begin the eviction process.
  See Maine Court: Maine Judicial Branch Forms
• Forcible Entry and Detainer (FED) Complaint (CV-007): This is the form the owner files in District Court if you do not leave after the notice period. As a tenant, you will receive a copy and have the right to respond and appear in court.
  Example: If you don’t leave after the Notice to Quit expires, you will receive a copy of the FED complaint and the hearing date.
  Download from: Forcible Entry & Detainer (Eviction) Complaint Form CV-007
• Answer to Complaint: Tenants can respond to the eviction complaint using a written answer. While Maine does not have a specific answer form, you can find guidance on submitting your defense at the Maine Judicial Branch Housing Help page.

Practical Example: If an operator tries to evict you after 30 days without a court order, remind them of your tenant status and refer them to the Maine eviction laws.

Your Rights and Responsibilities After 30 Days

• You cannot be locked out, removed, or have your belongings taken without a formal court eviction.
• All eviction notices must be in writing, with specific time periods noted.
• You have the right to appear in court and present your side.
• If you need repairs or maintenance, you may request them as with any regular rental. (See: MaineHousing for resources.)

Remember, if you’re facing immediate removal before 30 days, you may have fewer protections and should seek help right away (see Help and Support below).

FAQ: Maine Hotel and Motel Tenant Rights

1. When do I become a legal tenant in a Maine hotel or motel?
   You become a tenant after staying 30 consecutive days in the same unit, which gives you formal eviction protections under Maine law.
2. Can a hotel or motel owner lock me out without notice?
   No. After 30 days, you can only be evicted through a court order. Lockouts without legal process are prohibited once you're a tenant.
3. What notice must I receive before an eviction?
   You must receive a written 7-day or 30-day Notice to Quit, depending on the reason for eviction, before the owner can proceed to court.
4. What should I do if I receive an eviction notice?
   Carefully read the notice, check the dates, and prepare to attend any scheduled court hearing. Consider bringing documentation or seeking legal help.
5. Can I request repairs in a hotel or motel after 30 days?
   Yes. As a tenant, you may request repairs through the management. Document all requests in writing for your records.

Key Takeaways for Maine Hotel and Motel Tenants

• After 30 days' stay, you are a legal tenant under Maine law and have eviction and repair rights.
• Evictions require written notice and a court order—owners cannot lock you out or remove you without this process.
• Keep complete records of your stay and payment, and seek help if your rights are threatened.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maine Judicial Branch: Housing & Eviction Help – Step-by-step guides and information on your legal rights and the eviction process.
• MaineHousing – Housing assistance and renter resources.
• Maine Landlord-Tenant Laws – Full text of Title 14, Chapters 709 and 710.
• Pine Tree Legal Assistance – Free legal support for tenants (including hotel/motel tenants).
• To file an official complaint or respond to eviction, contact your local Maine District Court.

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1. Maine Revised Statutes Title 14, §6001: Tenancies at will
2. Maine District Court – Housing Matters
3. Maine Landlord-Tenant Statutes (Title 14, Chapter 709)
4. Maine Judicial Branch Forms – Eviction and Tenant Resources

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