Maine Rent Increases After Accessibility Upgrades: Your Rights

Living in Maine, you have important protections if your rental unit needs accessibility upgrades. Understanding the rules around rent increases following such modifications is vital for renters with disabilities and anyone sharing a home with them. This guide explains how the law works, what your landlord can and cannot do, and the official steps to protect your rights.

Understanding Accessibility Upgrades in Maine Rentals

Accessibility upgrades are modifications to a rental unit to make it more usable for those with disabilities. Examples include adding ramps, widening doorways, or installing grab bars. These changes are often necessary for renters with mobility challenges or other disabilities. In Maine, both federal and state laws protect your right to request and receive these modifications.

Can Landlords Increase Rent After Accessibility Upgrades in Maine?

Maine law requires landlords to allow reasonable modifications for renters with disabilities. However, whether a landlord can legally raise your rent due to upgrades depends on who paid for the modifications and the terms of your lease. The law distinguishes between upgrades paid for by the renter and those paid for by the landlord:

• If you pay for the accessibility upgrades: Your landlord generally cannot raise your rent as a direct result of these modifications.
• If the landlord pays for the upgrades (or covers part of the cost): Maine law may allow a rent increase equal to the actual cost incurred, but only if agreed to in writing or as specified under your lease. This must comply with all required notice periods and limits under state law.

Any rent increase not tied to these circumstances must follow standard notice rules and not discriminate on the basis of disability. For more details, see Maine Revised Statutes – Title 14, Section 6030-D (Reasonable accommodation and modification).¹

How Much Notice Is Required for Rent Increases?

In Maine, landlords must provide written notice at least 45 days before any rent increase for a tenancy at will (month-to-month renters). For leases, the increase can only take effect once the current lease period expires—unless your lease says otherwise.

Documenting Accessibility Modifications and Rent Changes

Proper documentation protects both you and your landlord. Here’s what to watch for:

• Written agreements: Any plans about who pays for upgrades and how they affect rent must be in writing.
• Receipts and estimates: Always keep records of modifications and associated costs.
• Official notices: Landlords must give notice in writing and in accordance with Maine law.

Official Forms for Renters

• Reasonable Accommodation/Modification Request (no specific state form): While Maine does not provide a mandatory official form, renters can write a letter or use HUD’s sample Reasonable Accommodation/Modification request. Provide your request in writing with a description of the needed upgrade and its necessity. For example, if you require a bathroom grab bar due to a mobility disability, submit a written request to your landlord. Include medical documentation if requested.
  Official reference: Maine Human Rights Commission – Fair Housing Guide.
• Notice of Rent Increase (Landlord to Tenant): While there is no prescribed form, landlords should provide a written notice stating the new rent amount and effective date at least 45 days before the increase. For sample language and required legal citations, see Maine Attorney General: Rights of Tenants in Maine.

Always keep a copy of any request or notice you submit or receive for your records.

Which Maine Authority Handles Rental Disputes?

The Maine Judicial Branch’s District Court system handles rental disputes, including questions regarding rent increases and accessibility. For discrimination or failure to allow reasonable modifications, complaints may go to the Maine Human Rights Commission (MHRC).²

Maine Tenancy Laws Covering Accessibility and Rent

• Maine Revised Statutes Title 14, Chapter 709 – Rental Property
• Section 6030-D: Reasonable accommodation and modification

FAQ: Maine Renters and Accessibility-Related Rent Increases

1. Can my landlord increase my rent because I requested an accessibility modification?
   A landlord in Maine cannot increase rent simply because you requested a modification. Only if the landlord pays for the modification and you agree in writing may any related cost be added to your rent, in line with proper notice rules.
2. What should I do if I get a rent increase after an upgrade I paid for?
   Respond to your landlord in writing and reference that you covered the cost. If the issue isn’t resolved, contact the Maine Human Rights Commission.
3. How much advance notice does my landlord have to give before a rent increase?
   Landlords must give at least 45 days’ written notice for tenancies at will. For leases, increases can only start after the lease ends, unless otherwise stated in the lease.
4. Do I need to use a specific state form for requesting accessibility modifications?
   No, Maine does not have a required form. A clear written letter or the HUD sample format suffices. Always keep a copy for your records.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maine Human Rights Commission (MHRC): File a complaint or get guidance on disability rights in housing.
• Maine Office of the Attorney General: Rights of Tenants: Comprehensive information on tenant rights and downloadable guides.
• Pine Tree Legal Assistance: Free legal help for Maine renters with low incomes.
• Maine District Court: Handles rental disputes, including rent increases and evictions.

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1. Maine Revised Statutes – Title 14, Section 6030-D: Reasonable Accommodation and Modification
2. Maine Human Rights Commission (MHRC)
3. Maine Office of the Attorney General: Rights of Tenants in Maine

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