Is my landlord required to provide internet in Maine?

Landlords in Maine are not required to provide internet service unless your lease specifically states it is included.

What should I do if the included internet is not working?

Send your landlord a formal written notice using the official form. If the issue is not resolved, file a complaint with the Maine Housing Court.

Can I deduct internet costs from my rent if service is down?

No, internet is not classified as an 'essential service' by law. Follow legal notice and complaint steps before considering any deductions.

Where do I file a complaint about apartment internet problems in Maine?

Start with the official Request for Repairs or Services form, then submit a complaint to the Maine Judicial Branch Housing Court if the issue is unresolved.

Maine Renters’ Guide to Internet Service Rights

Utilities, Services & Billing Maine published June 21, 2025

Having stable and reliable internet is a must-have for most Maine renters. Whether you’re moving in, renewing a lease, or facing utility disputes, understanding who is responsible for internet service in Maine apartments—and what you can do if problems arise—helps you protect your rights and stay connected.

Internet Service Responsibilities in Maine Rentals

Internet service is not always a standard utility like electricity or water. In Maine, the legal duties of landlords and tenants regarding internet are defined by your lease agreement and supported by state landlord-tenant law.

Is Internet Included in My Maine Rental?

Check Your Lease: Maine law requires all rental agreements to list included utilities and services. If internet is included, it should be clearly stated in the lease’s utility section. See Maine Attorney General’s guidance.
If Not Included: Typically, you are responsible for arranging and paying for your own internet unless otherwise specified.
Shared or Building-Wide Internet: Some properties offer bulk internet service. Ask your landlord how service is billed and who is responsible for outages or repairs.

If your lease is unclear or you’re not receiving a promised service, document your communications and make requests in writing.

Landlord Responsibilities for Internet Issues

Most landlords in Maine are not legally required to provide or maintain internet, unless the lease promises it. However:

If internet is included in the rent, a landlord must provide it reliably and not disconnect service as a form of retaliation.
If a landlord controls the internet contract (for example, in a dorm or inclusive apartment), they must maintain access for renters.
If there are unrepaired problems, tenants can file a written complaint and request prompt action.

For general housing standards, Senate Statute Maine Revised Statutes Title 14 §6021 – Implied Warranty of Fitness for Human Habitation sets minimum habitability rules—but does not cover internet as essential.

What to Do If Your Internet Service Stops or Is Not Provided

First, review your lease to confirm if the landlord is responsible for internet service.
Contact your landlord in writing outlining the issue and request a resolution.
If a landlord fails to provide an included service, you may be able to file a formal complaint or pursue rent abatement. Consult with Maine Judicial Branch Housing Court for legal recourse.
Maintain copies of all correspondence and keep notes of your attempts to resolve the problem.

Quick summary: Always start with your lease and written requests before taking further action.

Utility Billing Disputes and Withholding Rent

If you believe you’re being unfairly charged for internet or denied service:

Do not withhold rent outright; this could lead to eviction proceedings.
Instead, use Maine’s official complaint processes. You can use the Request for Repairs or Services Form (see next section) to formally notify your landlord.
If the dispute is unresolved, the Maine Judicial Branch Housing Court can assist, particularly with rent escrow.

Internet is not considered an “essential service” under the Essential Services Law (Title 14 §6024), which means heat, water, and electricity have different legal protections.

Official Forms: Request for Repairs or Services (No Official Number)

When to Use: If your landlord fails to provide an included internet service—or does not respond to your written requests.
How to Use: Complete the form, describing the issue, your requests, and dates of communication. Submit it to your landlord via certified mail or in person. Download the official Written Notice to Landlord Form (PDF).
Example: You are promised “free building-wide WiFi” in your lease but service is constantly down. After emailing your landlord twice, you still have no solution. Fill out the form and send it as a formal record.

This formal written notice is required before further legal steps, such as seeking help through the Housing Court.

Where to File a Utility or Lease Complaint in Maine

Primary Tribunal: The Maine Judicial Branch Housing Court oversees landlord-tenant disputes, including issues with utilities and services.
How to File: After giving written notice, file a complaint or motion for rent escrow using the Housing Court’s process. Review the official court forms directory.

If you need legal help or face potential eviction due to an unresolved utility dispute, reach out to free legal aid services for support.

Tip: Always keep copies of leases, bills, emails, and forms—these documents are your best protection in service disputes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is my landlord required to provide internet in Maine?
Generally, landlords in Maine are not required to provide internet unless your lease specifically states it is included.
What should I do if the included internet is not working?
Send your landlord a formal written notice using the official form. If the issue continues, file a complaint with the Maine Housing Court.
Can I deduct internet costs from my rent if service is down?
No. Internet is not considered an “essential service” by law. Use written notice or legal remedy before considering deductions.
Where do I file a complaint about internet problems in my apartment?
Start with the Request for Repairs or Services form, then file with the Maine Judicial Branch Housing Court if unresolved.
Does my landlord have to repair internet if it is part of the lease?
Yes. If your lease requires the landlord to provide internet, they are responsible for maintenance and repairs, as with any included service.

Key Takeaways for Maine Renters

Read your lease carefully to know your internet rights and obligations.
Use written notices to document issues and request repairs or service.
If problems persist, Maine Housing Court offers legal channels for complaints and rent escrow.

Always take proactive steps and use official forms to communicate and resolve disputes.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Maine Attorney General – Landlord-Tenant Guide
Maine Judicial Branch Housing Court – Information and forms for utility/service disputes
Pine Tree Legal Assistance: Maine Renters’ Rights – Free legal advice and advocacy
Official Maine Court Forms Directory
Maine Landlord-Tenant Law (Title 14, Chapter 709)