Maine Rental Utility Responsibilities: Tenant & Landlord Laws

Understanding who pays for utilities is a key issue for many renters in Maine. Whether it’s electricity, water, heat, or trash removal, state law sets clear requirements and protections. This guide explains what Maine law says about utilities in rental housing, who’s responsible for utility bills, and what to do if there’s a dispute.

Who Is Responsible for Utilities in Maine Rentals?

In Maine, the responsibility for paying for utilities—such as electricity, water, heat, gas, or sewer—depends on your rental agreement. State law does not require landlords to pay all utilities, but it does require the rental agreement to state who is responsible for each service.

• Lease or rental agreement controls: Your rental contract should specify which utilities the landlord pays and which are the tenant’s responsibility.
• If the agreement is silent:
• Landlords are typically responsible for utilities necessary to meet health or safety codes (like heating and running water).
• Tenants may be responsible for other utilities or services (for example: cable, internet, electricity if separately metered).
• Utilities cannot be shut off by the landlord as a form of eviction or retaliation.

For the full legal details, see Maine Revised Statutes Title 14, Section 6024: Utility Service and Section 6021: Warranty of Fitness.^1,2

Common Utility Arrangements in Maine Rentals

Rental arrangements in Maine typically fall into these categories:

• All utilities included: Rent covers heat, electricity, water, and trash. The landlord pays the bills directly.
• Some utilities included: For example, heat and water included; tenant pays electric and internet.
• No utilities included: Tenant pays all utilities, usually when units are separately metered.

What If My Landlord Pays and Stops Service?

Maine law prohibits landlords from purposely shutting off or refusing to pay for utilities to force a tenant to leave. This is considered an illegal “self-help” eviction.

Tip: If you lose essential utility service because your landlord fails to pay the bill, contact Maine’s Consumer Protection Division and keep detailed records of interruptions.

Can a Landlord Bill Tenants for Utilities?

Landlords may bill tenants for utilities only if the rental agreement allows it. If utilities are not separately metered, charging tenants for utilities used by others may be unlawful unless disclosed and agreed in writing.

What To Do If There Is a Utility Dispute

If there’s a disagreement over who pays a utility bill, first check your lease agreement. If responsibilities aren’t clear, consider these steps:

• Read the lease: Check for sections on utilities or addenda about services.
• Communicate in writing: Send your landlord a clear request for information or clarification.
• Know your rights: The Maine Office of the Attorney General and Maine Judicial Branch have guides for renters facing utility shutoffs or landlord disputes.

Relevant Official Forms for Maine Renters

• Form: Complaint for Forcible Entry and Detainer
  When a landlord illegally attempts to evict you by turning off utilities, you may file this form to start an eviction challenge in court.
  Complaint for Forcible Entry and Detainer (Filing forms)
• Form: Request for Emergency Injunction (No number)
  If there is an immediate threat to your health or safety (like the landlord shutting off heat in winter), you can file this with your local district court.
  See details at the Maine District Court – Eviction Proceedings page.

For guidance, visit the Maine Office of the Attorney General Renter Rights section.

Relevant Tribunals and Housing Authorities

Residential tenancy matters in Maine are handled by the Maine District Court. This court hears all landlord-tenant disputes, including cases involving utilities, evictions, or repairs.

FAQ: Maine Rental Utilities & Billing

1. Can a landlord make me pay for utilities I did not use?
   Generally, tenants can only be required to pay for utilities they directly use, typically through separate metering, unless the lease specifically states otherwise and is lawful. If your unit isn’t separately metered, review your agreement and seek legal advice if charges seem unfair.
2. Is a landlord required to provide heat and water in Maine?
   Landlords must provide heat, water, and other essential services needed to meet state health and safety codes unless the lease puts the responsibility on the tenant and separate utility accounts exist.
3. What if my landlord shuts off my power or water?
   This is illegal in Maine. If it happens, contact your local district court or the Maine Attorney General. Keep all records and communication.
4. Are utility charges grounds for eviction in Maine?
   Landlords can file to evict a tenant for unpaid utilities only if the rental agreement requires the tenant to pay those utilities as a condition of the lease.
5. Where can I find Maine’s rental laws on utilities?
   The main laws are in Title 14, Section 6024 and the Maine Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.

Summary of Key Takeaways

• Utility payment responsibilities in Maine must be clear in your lease or rental agreement.
• Landlords cannot legally shut off utilities to force a tenant out or retaliate.
• Disputes can be taken to the Maine District Court, and official forms are available online.

Remember—reading your lease and understanding Maine law is the best protection against utility disagreements.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maine Office of the Attorney General – Housing & Tenants
• Maine District Court – Eviction & Utility Proceedings
• MaineHousing – Safe and affordable housing programs
• Maine Legal Services: For free legal advice, find your local office at Pine Tree Legal Assistance

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1. Maine Revised Statutes Title 14, Section 6024: Utility Service
2. Maine Revised Statutes Title 14, Section 6021: Warranty of Fitness
3. Maine Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Chapter 709)
4. Maine District Court – Eviction & Utility Proceedings
5. Maine Office of the Attorney General – Renter Rights

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