Can a Maine renter change their own locks due to domestic violence?

You must first request the lock change from your landlord. If the landlord does not act within 72 hours after proper notice and documentation, you may arrange for the change yourself and deduct the reasonable cost from your rent.

What documentation is needed for early lease termination in Maine?

To end your lease early due to domestic violence, provide your landlord with either a court-issued protection from abuse order or a notarized affidavit describing your situation.

Are there penalties for ending a lease early if I am a victim?

No. As long as you follow the legal process, Maine law prohibits landlords from charging early termination penalties for domestic violence survivors.

Will my situation be kept confidential?

Yes. Landlords must maintain your privacy and confidentiality under Maine law when you exercise these rights.

Where can I get legal help if my landlord refuses to cooperate?

You can contact Pine Tree Legal Assistance or the Maine Human Rights Commission for support, or address the dispute in Maine District Court.

Maine Tenant Rights: Domestic Violence Protections & Emergency Security

Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Maine published June 21, 2025

If you rent a home or apartment in Maine and have experienced domestic violence, the law offers important protections. Understanding your rights can help you stay safer, make emergency changes, or even end your lease without penalty. This guide covers what Maine renters need to know, from changing locks to requesting early lease termination, along with official forms and resources to help you through each step.

Your Rights as a Renter Experiencing Domestic Violence in Maine

Maine law recognizes the unique risks tenants face due to domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. Specific protections include the ability to change locks, terminate a lease early, and prevent certain evictions.

Right to Change Locks: Tenants can request their landlord to change the locks on their rental unit.
Right to Early Lease Termination: Victims can end their lease early without penalty under certain conditions.
Protection from Discrimination: Landlords cannot discriminate or retaliate against tenants because they are victims of domestic violence.

Requesting Lock Changes for Safety

If you are worried about your safety due to domestic violence, Maine law lets you ask your landlord to change the locks as an emergency protection. You must provide the landlord with either a copy of a protection order or a signed affidavit (a sworn written statement) describing the circumstances.

Landlords must change locks within 72 hours of your written request, and you may be responsible for reasonable costs.
If your landlord fails to act, you may be able to arrange the change yourself and deduct the cost from your rent—see the specific process in Maine Title 14 §6001.

Official Forms Used by Maine Tenants

Protection from Abuse Order (Maine District Court Form PA-001): This official court order can help establish your right to extra protections, including lock changes and lease termination.
Example: If you receive a court-issued protection from abuse order, you can provide a copy to your landlord to support your request for emergency lock changes. Download Maine Protection from Abuse Order (PA-001)
Sworn Affidavit: If you do not have a court order, Maine law also allows you to submit a sworn affidavit describing the situation.
Example: You write and sign an affidavit detailing why you need protection, then provide this to your landlord alongside your lock change or lease termination request. Maine does not have a universal affidavit form, but it must be notarized. View guidance at the Maine Judicial Branch Affidavit Resources.

Early Lease Termination If You're a Victim

If domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking creates an urgent need to move, Maine law lets eligible tenants end their lease early (with 7 days' written notice) without penalty. To do so, you must provide:

A valid protection from abuse order or
A sworn affidavit as described above

Landlords cannot charge early termination fees if you follow these steps. For details, see Maine Revised Statutes, Title 14 §6001.

Eviction and Discrimination Protections

Landlords in Maine cannot evict, refuse to rent, or otherwise discriminate against you solely because you are a victim of domestic violence. Proof may be required if the landlord initiates eviction for reasons related to alleged abuse or damages stemming from a domestic violence incident.

Key Takeaway: Protecting your personal safety is your right as a renter in Maine. The law is designed to help you act quickly and without fear of losing your home or facing penalties.

Main Tribunal Handling Maine Rental Disputes

Most residential tenancy disputes are heard in the Maine District Court. Issues like protection order applications, discrimination claims, or eviction matters may be addressed there.

Steps to Request a Lock Change from Your Landlord

Follow these steps to request a lock change if you are experiencing domestic violence:

Gather proof (either a court order or sworn affidavit).
Write a formal request to your landlord, attaching the documentation.
Send your request in writing (email or certified mail is recommended).
Landlord must comply within 72 hours. If not, document their response and consider arranging the lock change yourself; keep all receipts and notice your landlord in writing of the action.

FAQ: Maine Domestic Violence Tenant Protections

Can a Maine renter change their own locks due to domestic violence?
In most cases, you must request the change through your landlord. If the landlord does not act within 72 hours after proper notice, you can arrange the change yourself following Maine law.
What documentation is needed for early lease termination in Maine?
You must provide either a protection from abuse order or a sworn affidavit. These must accompany your written notice to your landlord.
Are there fees for ending a lease early due to domestic violence?
No. If you follow the legal process, landlords cannot charge early termination penalties.
Will my landlord or neighbors be notified about my situation?
Your landlord will receive documentation, but privacy must be maintained. Maine law requires confidentiality for victims.
Where can I file a complaint if my rights are violated?
Rental disputes can be addressed in the Maine District Court or through the Maine Human Rights Commission for discrimination complaints.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Maine Renters

Tenants experiencing domestic violence in Maine have the right to request lock changes and end leases early.
Legal documentation—either a court order or affidavit—is required for these protections.
Landlords cannot discriminate or penalize you for seeking emergency protections.

Knowing your rights and acting quickly using official forms helps keep you protected during a difficult time.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Maine State Housing Authority – Guidance on tenant rights, forms, and emergency assistance.
Maine Protection from Abuse Order Form (PA-001) – Official court application for protection orders.
Maine Human Rights Commission – File discrimination complaints related to rental housing.
Maine District Court – Handles rental disputes and tenancy matters.
Pine Tree Legal Assistance – Free and confidential legal advice for Maine renters.
Maine Landlord-Tenant Laws (Title 14, Chapter 709) – Full landlord-tenant statutes with protections for renters.