Maine Renter Rights: Your Legal Protections in 2024

Navigating renting in Maine should feel safe, clear, and fair. As a tenant in Maine, knowing your rights can help you respond confidently if your landlord raises the rent, issues an eviction notice, or neglects repairs. This guide outlines your core protections and responsibilities as a Maine renter, with step-by-step advice and links to official forms and resources.

Who Oversees Renter Protections in Maine?

The Maine Judicial Branch oversees residential rental disputes, including evictions. Maine landlords and tenants must follow the Maine Revised Statutes Title 14, Chapter 709: Rental Property^[1].

Your Key Rights and Responsibilities

Maine renters have a set of protections and obligations as outlined in state law. Here are the most important areas you should know about:

Security Deposits

• Deposit limit: Landlords may not collect more than two months’ rent as a security deposit.
• Return timeline: Your deposit must be returned within 30 days of moving out (or 21 days if you gave proper notice).
• Written statement: If any amount is withheld, landlords must provide a written list of damages and costs.

If you haven't received your deposit back, you can use Maine's Small Claims Complaint form to seek repayment.

Rent Increases

• No rent control exists statewide, but landlords must give at least 45 days’ written notice before increasing rent (unless you live in subsidized housing).
• Rent can only be raised after your lease ends, or in a month-to-month tenancy with proper notice.

Eviction Notices and Protections

• Notice required: Landlords must provide a written eviction notice. The notice period depends on the reason:
  • 7 days for nonpayment of rent or destruction of property
  • 30 days for ‘no cause’ or non-renewal of month-to-month lease
• Tenants have the right to contest an eviction in court.

The official form used by landlords is the Summons for Forcible Entry and Detainer (Form CV-007). Tenants receive this if the landlord files an eviction case in court.

Right to a Safe and Habitable Home (Repairs)

• Landlords are legally required to keep rentals safe, sanitary, and fit for living.
• Common issues landlords must fix: no heat, plumbing issues, unsafe wiring, serious leaks, or broken smoke detectors.
• Tenants must notify the landlord about repair needs in writing. If repairs aren't made, you may contact town/city code enforcement or seek court help.

If you need help with an urgent repair problem, contact your local code enforcement officer. Their details can be found via your town or city’s official website.

Always keep copies of all communications, notices, and forms exchanged with your landlord.

Required Forms and How They're Used

• Summons for Forcible Entry and Detainer (CV-007): Used by landlords to start an eviction in court. If you receive one, it means an official eviction case has begun. Download here.
• Small Claims Complaint Form (CV-067): Used by renters to recover money owed, such as a withheld security deposit. Download here. File at your nearest District Court.
• Answer to Complaint Form: Used to respond if you are served with a court complaint. Access via the Maine Judicial Branch Forms page.

What If My Rights Are Violated?

• Document the issue in writing and keep a copy.
• Reach out to your landlord first, if possible.
• If unresolved, consider filing a complaint in District Court or with your local housing code enforcement office.
• Free legal help is available from organizations like Pine Tree Legal Assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Maine?
   In Maine, a landlord may not charge more than two months’ rent as a security deposit, and it must be returned within 30 days of move-out unless damages or unpaid rent apply.
2. Is my landlord required to give advance notice before raising my rent?
   Yes. Your landlord must provide at least 45 days’ written notice before a rent increase can take effect in most situations.
3. What should I do if my landlord files for eviction?
   If you receive a "Summons for Forcible Entry and Detainer," read it carefully and respond by attending the court date. You can use the Answer to Complaint Form and seek help from resources like Pine Tree Legal Assistance.
4. Am I responsible for repairs if something breaks in my rental?
   You're only responsible for damages you or your guests cause. Landlords must handle regular maintenance and serious safety issues.
5. Where can I file a complaint if my rental is unsafe?
   You can contact your local code enforcement office or file an action in District Court using official forms like the Small Claims Complaint Form.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Maine law sets clear rules for deposits, eviction, and repairs—know your rights and responsibilities.
• Always document all communication and keep copies of forms and notices.
• Act quickly: use the correct official form and seek legal help or code enforcement support if needed.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maine Judicial Branch – Landlord Tenant Resources
• Pine Tree Legal Assistance – Tenant Rights Guides
• Contact Your Town/City Code Enforcement Officer
• Maine Revised Statutes: Rental Property Laws

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1. Maine Revised Statutes Title 14, Chapter 709: Rental Property
2. Maine Judicial Branch – Landlord-Tenant
3. Pine Tree Legal Assistance – Self-Help Landlord-Tenant

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