Pass-Through Costs and Rent Increases in Maine

If you're a renter in Maine, you may wonder when your landlord is allowed to raise your rent — especially if they claim new costs, like property taxes or building repairs, are the reason. Understanding the rules around "pass-through costs" and when a landlord can increase rent is essential for protecting your rights and planning your budget.

What Are Pass-Through Costs?

"Pass-through costs" happen when a landlord transfers certain expenses (like increased property taxes, utility improvements, or major repairs) to tenants through rent increases. In some states and cities with strict rent control, there are limits or special rules for such increases. In Maine, however, rent control laws are not statewide, so local and state regulations differ in their approach to these costs.

When Can a Landlord Raise Rent in Maine?

Under Maine law, landlords can raise the rent as long as they provide proper written notice and do not do so in ways that violate anti-discrimination laws or local ordinances. There is no statewide rent control or limit on how much a landlord can raise the rent, unless local regulations apply (such as in the City of Portland).

• Landlords must give at least 45 days' written notice before increasing rent for tenants who do not have a fixed-term lease.^[1]
• If you have a lease, rent can only be raised at the end of your lease term, unless your lease says otherwise.
• In some municipalities (like Portland), local rental ordinances may offer more protection or require justification for "pass-through" increases. Check local rules if you live in one of these cities.

Are Pass-Through Costs Allowed?

Unlike states with formal rent control, Maine state law does not regulate pass-through cost increases, unless restricted by local ordinances. A landlord may increase rent to cover increased operating costs, but must still follow notice rules. In the City of Portland, the Rent Control Ordinance requires landlords to register rent increases and may limit certain pass-through adjustments.^[2]

How Much Notice Do You Get?

Statewide, tenants are entitled to at least 45 days’ written notice. In Portland, the requirement is at least 75 days’ notice before a significant rent increase.^[2]

• Notice must be written and delivered (not just verbal).
• If you have a lease or written rental agreement, check for provisions about increases or pass-throughs.

Required Forms

There isn’t a special statewide form for rent increases in Maine. Typically, a landlord will issue a simple “Notice of Rent Increase.” In Portland or other cities with local rules, landlords often must file forms with the Rental Housing Program.

• Notice of Rent Increase (no formal state number): This letter is given to tenants to provide official notice of a rent change.
  Example: If your rent is $1,000 and your landlord plans to increase it due to higher building maintenance costs, you must receive a written notice at least 45 days in advance.
• In Portland, landlords must also submit a Rent Increase Registration Form to the city’s Rental Housing office.

What If You Disagree with the Rent Increase?

If you believe the increase is illegal (like discrimination), retaliatory, or violates your lease, you have a few options:

• Speak with your landlord for clarification and negotiate if possible.
• File a complaint with Maine Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division or your local housing office.
• In Portland, you can appeal to the Portland Rent Board, which hears disputes related to rent increases and pass-through costs.

Relevant Laws and Tribunals

• Maine Revised Statutes Title 14, Section 6015: Outlines basic rules and procedures for rent increases.
• For Portland-specific issues: Portland Rent Board is the appeals tribunal for rent issues within Portland.

FAQ: Pass-Through Costs and Rent Increases in Maine

1. Can my landlord increase my rent any time they want in Maine?
   No. Your landlord must give you at least 45 days’ written notice before raising rent on a month-to-month rental. If you have a lease, increases can only occur at lease renewal unless the lease allows for mid-term increases.
2. Are there limits on how much my rent can go up because of pass-through costs?
   There is no statewide limit in Maine, but local rules in some cities (like Portland) may cap increases or require approval for large pass-through charges.
3. What should a notice of rent increase say?
   The notice should include your current rent, the new rent amount, the effective date, and the reason for the increase if local regulation (e.g., Portland) requires it.
4. What if I think the rent increase is unfair or illegal?
   You can file a complaint with the Maine Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division or, if you are in Portland, with the Rent Board. Always keep a copy of all notices and communications.
5. Does Maine have rent control?
   Maine does not have statewide rent control, but Portland has local rent stabilization rules. Always check your city’s regulations.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maine Attorney General – Consumer Protection Division: Guidance and complaint forms for housing issues statewide.
• Portland Rental Housing Program: For city residents facing rent increases or disputes.
• Pine Tree Legal Assistance: Free legal help for low-income tenants across Maine.
• Portland Rent Board: For Portland tenants to file appeals.

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1. [1] Maine Revised Statutes Title 14, §6015: Notice of Rent Increase
2. [2] City of Portland Rent Control Ordinance

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