Maine Rent Caps and Local Rent Control Ordinances Explained

Maine renters facing rent increases often wonder if there are any limits or protections at the city or state level. This article breaks down how rent caps and local rent control ordinances work across Maine cities, what official protections exist for tenants, and what steps you can take if you feel your rent is rising unfairly. All information is provided in plain language, with direct links to official government and legal resources to support Maine renters navigating rent hikes and tenancy concerns.

Do Rent Caps or Rent Control Exist in Maine?

Currently, Maine does not enforce statewide rent control or rent cap laws. The state government itself does not set limits on how much landlords can increase rent on most private residential leases. However, within Maine, some cities—most notably Portland—have enacted local ordinances to address rapidly rising rents and offer stability to tenants. It's important to know your city’s rules as local ordinances may provide additional protections not covered by state law.

Portland’s Rent Control Ordinance

Portland is the first and only city in Maine (as of this year) to pass a local rent control law. Portland’s Rent Control Ordinance (City Code Chapter 6, Article XII) sets specific rules for how landlords can raise rents on covered rental units:

• Limits annual rent increases to the rate of inflation (Consumer Price Index), with some exceptions.
• Requires landlords to register rental units with the city and follow detailed notice rules for rent increases.
• Allows tenants to report illegal rent increases to the city's Rent Board.

Other Maine cities, like South Portland and Bangor, do not have local rent control ordinances as of the date of this article. If you live outside of Portland, state-wide rules apply (meaning no rent cap except as set in your lease.)

Types of Leases and Rent Increases in Maine

Under Maine’s Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, rent increases are largely unregulated unless your unit falls under a local ordinance or you have a specific clause restricting increases in your lease. Here’s what renters should know:

• Written lease: The rent amount and changes should be specified in your lease agreement. Landlords must comply with the lease terms.
• No written lease/tenancy at will: Landlords must give at least 45 days’ written notice before raising rent. Rent cannot be increased during a fixed-term lease unless agreed in advance.

Maine’s Official Forms and Renter Action Steps

Although Maine doesn’t have a form specifically to challenge a rent increase statewide, there are official forms for tenancy notices. Here’s what’s used most frequently:

• Notice of Rent Increase (No Official Form Number): Maine state law requires landlords to give written notice at least 45 days in advance before increasing rent for tenancies at will. There is no specific template from the Maine Attorney General, but tenants should receive a clear, dated written notice stating the new amount and the date it takes effect.
  
  Tip: Retain copies of all rent increase notices for your records. If you believe the notice is invalid (for example, not given in writing or with insufficient notice), notify your landlord in writing and consider contacting your local Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.
• Rent Control Complaint Form (Portland only, no statewide form): If you live in Portland and believe your landlord has violated the city’s rent control law, you can file a complaint with the Portland Rent Board. Access the official Rent Control Complaint Form and process here.

Where to Take Rental Disputes in Maine

Rental disputes in Maine are handled through the Maine District Court, which oversees eviction and rent-related complaints. Portland renters may also appeal to the city’s Rent Board for local rent cap issues.

Relevant Legislation and Resources

• Maine Revised Statutes, Title 14, Chapter 709 - Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
• Portland Rent Control Ordinance and Board
• Maine Attorney General’s Guide to Landlord-Tenant Law

FAQ: Rent Caps and Local Ordinances in Maine

1. Are there statewide rent caps or rent control in Maine?
   No, Maine does not have statewide rent control. Only Portland has a local rent cap ordinance.
2. How much notice does a landlord need to provide before raising rent?
   For at-will tenancies, at least 45 days’ written notice is required. For fixed-term leases, the lease governs.
3. What should I do if I receive an illegal rent increase in Portland?
   File a complaint with the Portland Rent Board using their official process.
4. Where can I find the current laws about Maine renters’ rights?
   Maine renters’ rights are explained in the Maine Residential Landlord and Tenant Act and city-specific ordinances.
5. If my city does not have rent control, can my landlord raise the rent any amount?
   Yes, unless restricted by your lease or a local ordinance. Required notice still applies.

Conclusion: What Maine Renters Should Remember

• Maine does not have statewide rent caps, but Portland has a local rent control ordinance.
• Landlords must give at least 45 days’ written notice before increasing rent (for at-will tenancies).
• Disputes and complaints can be taken to Maine District Court, and in Portland, to the Rent Board.

Being aware of your local protections and knowing the right resources empowers you to handle rent increases confidently and legally.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maine District Court – Eviction & Rent Dispute Information (tribunal for residential tenancies)
• Portland Rent Control Board
• Maine Attorney General – Landlord-Tenant Information
• MaineHousing – Renters Resources

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1. Maine Revised Statutes, Title 14, Chapter 709 - Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
2. Portland Rent Control Ordinance
3. Maine District Court – Eviction & Tenancy
4. Maine Attorney General – Tenant Rights

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