What should I do if I think my water is unsafe to drink?

Notify your landlord in writing, document the problem, and request repairs or water testing. If unresolved, contact local code enforcement or the Maine Drinking Water Program.

How often must landlords test private well water?

Landlords should test private wells for bacteria yearly, and for arsenic, uranium, and lead as required by Maine law—especially between tenancies.

Can I break my lease if the water is unsafe and the landlord won’t fix it?

You may have a right to terminate your lease if unsafe water persists, but you must give proper notice and follow Maine procedures.

Who do I contact for unsafe water issues in my rental?

Contact your landlord first. If not resolved, contact your local code enforcement officer or the Maine CDC Drinking Water Program.

What official forms should I use to report unsafe water or request repairs?

Use the Notice of Conditions Requiring Repair form for your landlord and the Drinking Water Complaint form for the state.

Maine Renters: Know Your Safe Drinking Water Rights

Health & Safety Standards Maine published: June 21, 2025

If you rent a home or apartment in Maine, having access to safe, clean drinking water isn’t just a convenience—it's your right. Maine law requires landlords to provide water that meets state safety standards. This article explains what those standards are, what to do if your water is unsafe, the official steps to report problems, and where to get help.

Understanding Safe Drinking Water Standards in Maine

Maine state law and federal rules set clear requirements for drinking water in rental properties. Landlords must supply water that is potable (safe to drink, cook, and bathe with) and comply with all local and state health regulations.^[1]

City or town water systems: Usually regulated by the Maine Drinking Water Program.
Private wells: Landlords are responsible for ensuring well water is tested for bacteria, arsenic, uranium, lead, and other contaminants as required by state law.^[2]

If your rental’s water is discolored, smells bad, or you suspect contamination, it may not meet legal requirements.

Landlord Responsibilities for Water Quality

Maintain plumbing and water delivery systems in good working order
Test private well water for contaminants when required (Maine CDC Homeowner Well Water Testing Rules)
Provide written water test results to tenants when requested
Resolve unsafe water issues promptly, either by fixing the problem or supplying safe water by alternate means

Failing to provide safe water or ignoring repair requests may be a violation of the landlord’s legal duty under Maine Revised Statutes Title 14, §6021 (Warranty of Habitability).^[3]

What to Do If Your Water Is Unsafe

If you think your drinking water is unsafe, act quickly to protect yourself and ensure your landlord addresses the problem.

Document the issue: Take photos, collect water samples, and note foul odors or colors.
Notify your landlord in writing: Clearly state the issue, when it started, and request immediate repairs or water testing.
Request a copy of recent water test results if your rental uses a private well.
If unresolved, file a complaint with your local code enforcement office or the Maine CDC Drinking Water Program.

If unsafe conditions continue, you may also be able to withhold rent or repair and deduct expenses, but you must follow all state rules and deadlines.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

Notice of Conditions Requiring Repair Form (No number):
Use this form to formally notify your landlord of unsafe drinking water or other serious repair issues.
Example: If your water smells like sulfur or tests show high lead, complete the form, describe the hazard, sign and date it, and keep a copy. Send it by certified mail or another trackable method.
Download the Notice of Conditions Requiring Repair (PDF)
Complaint Forms – Maine CDC Drinking Water:
If your landlord fails to act, file a complaint with the Maine Drinking Water Program.
Example: If you’ve notified your landlord and gotten no response, use their online or print forms to report the violation.
File a Drinking Water Complaint

Tip: Always keep records of your communications and submitted forms in case further action is needed.

What the Law Says: Landlord and Tenant Rights

Maine’s Warranty of Habitability Law protects your right to a safe and healthy rental home, including water. If your landlord fails to meet these standards, you may be entitled to remedies such as repair-and-deduct, rent withholding, or seeking help from the court or local authorities.^[3]

Disputes over water quality can be handled by the appropriate local code enforcement agency or, in serious cases, in Maine District Court, which handles landlord-tenant issues.

Maine law supports your right to live in a rental property with water that is safe for drinking and daily use. If you have concerns, take action early and keep a written record.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I think my water is unsafe to drink?
Notify your landlord in writing right away, document the problem, and request urgent repairs or water testing. If your landlord doesn’t resolve the issue, contact your local code enforcement officer or the Maine Drinking Water Program.
How often must landlords test private well water?
Landlords should test private wells for bacterial contamination each year and for arsenic, uranium, and lead as required by statute, especially between tenancies.
Can I break my lease if the water is unsafe and the landlord won’t fix it?
Possibly—if the water remains unfit, you may have the right to terminate your tenancy early, but you must give proper notice and follow state procedure. Consult official guidance or seek legal help before moving out.
Who do I contact for unsafe water issues in my rental?
Start with your landlord. If not resolved, contact your local code enforcement office or the Maine CDC Drinking Water Program.
What official forms should I use to report unsafe water or request repairs?
Use the Notice of Conditions Requiring Repair to alert your landlord and the Drinking Water Complaint Form for state reporting.

Summary and Key Takeaways

Maine renters have a right to safe, potable water as part of the state’s habitability standards.
Landlords must supply and maintain safe drinking water, whether from a public source or private well.
If you believe your water is unsafe, act quickly: document the issue, notify your landlord, and reach out to official agencies if needed.

Stay informed and keep clear records—your health and safety come first.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Maine Drinking Water Program: Information, water complaints, and guidance
State of Maine - Tenant Rights and Responsibilities: Legal FAQs and forms
Title 14: Maine Landlord-Tenant Law: Full legislation
MaineHousing: Housing support and resources
Maine District Court: Handles landlord-tenant disputes

See Maine Revised Statutes Title 14, §6021 (Warranty of Habitability)
Find water testing requirements in Maine Revised Statutes Title 14, §6030-D
Statutory protections for renters are set under Maine Landlord-Tenant Law