Requesting Repairs Before Moving In: Maine Guide

Before you move into a new rental home in Maine, it's your right to expect a clean, safe, and properly maintained living space. If you notice repair issues—like broken appliances, unsafe wiring, or mold—it's important to take action before signing your lease or handing over keys. This article explains the steps you can take to demand repairs before move-in, using Maine's specific rental laws and available resources.

Your Right to a Safe and Habitable Home in Maine

In Maine, landlords are required by law to provide rental units that meet safety, health, and building standards. This is called the “warranty of habitability.” Landlords must fix serious problems that could affect your health or safety, both before and after you move in. These obligations are explained in the Maine Revised Statutes Title 14, Section 6021 (the main state law covering landlord and tenant responsibilities).

What Is a Move-In Inspection?

Before moving in, you and your landlord can inspect the property together. During this walk-through, document any damages, needed repairs, or issues that must be addressed. Take photos and write down your findings.

• Look for water damage, leaks, or mold
• Check appliances, windows, doors, and locks
• Ensure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors work
• Make sure plumbing, heat, and electrical systems function properly

How to Officially Request Repairs Before Moving In

Emailing or handing a written repair request to your landlord is the best way to protect your rights. For your records, always keep copies of all correspondence and photos.

Sample Written Repair Request

Include:

• Your name and the rental address
• A clear list of repair issues you want fixed before move-in
• The date you expect repairs to be completed
• Your contact information

Using the Maine Rental Inspection Checklist

Maine does not require a specific state-wide move-in form, but many towns and cities offer checklists. You can use the Maine Landlord-Tenant Checklist (PDF) to guide your inspection and note requested repairs. This checklist is helpful if a dispute arises later.

• Form Name: Maine Landlord-Tenant Checklist
• When to Use: At move-in, before signing the lease or accepting keys
• How to Use: Fill it out during your walk-through and share a copy with your landlord, keeping one for yourself
• Official Source: Download the checklist from Maine CDC

If Repairs Are Not Made: Your Options

If your landlord does not complete needed repairs before move-in, you have a few options:

• Refuse to sign the lease or move in until repairs are done
• Negotiate, in writing, that repairs will be made by a set deadline after move-in
• Report significant safety or health violations to your local code enforcement office

Serious hazards—like no heat, exposed wiring, or unsanitary conditions—may make the rental illegal to occupy. If this is the case, contact the code enforcement office in your town or city for an official inspection.

How Complaints Are Handled

In disputes about habitability or repairs, you may apply to the Maine District Court, which oversees landlord-tenant matters. Bring documentation: your repair request, photos, completed checklists, and any communications with your landlord.

If you're unsure about your legal options, reach out to Pine Tree Legal Assistance or your local city hall for free tenant guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is my landlord required to make repairs before I move in?
   Maine law requires landlords to provide safe, sanitary, and working housing. Essential repairs (heat, water, safety issues) must be completed before move-in or by a dated agreement.
2. What if my landlord refuses to do repairs?
   You can refuse to sign the lease, delay your move-in, or contact your town's code enforcement office. Document everything with photos and written communication.
3. Do I have to use a specific inspection form in Maine?
   Maine does not have a state-mandated form, but using a checklist like the Maine Landlord-Tenant Checklist is recommended to protect yourself.
4. Can I move in and still ask for repairs?
   Yes, but ensure you have a written agreement that repairs will be completed by a specific date. Always save copies of your requests.
5. Which court handles tenant-landlord disputes in Maine?
   The Maine District Court deals with residential tenancy issues, including unresolved repair disputes.

Key Takeaways for Maine Renters

• Inspect your rental with a checklist and make written repair requests before move-in
• Maine law requires landlords to provide safe, working, and habitable homes
• If necessary, report major repair issues to local code enforcement or seek help from the District Court

A proactive approach—documenting all steps—can prevent future conflicts and protect your rights as a Maine renter.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maine Department of Environmental Health: Rental Housing – official information, forms, and tenant rights guidance
• Maine District Court – for formal complaints and disputes
• Pine Tree Legal Assistance – free legal help for Maine renters
• Contact your town or city code enforcement office for urgent health or safety violations

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1. Maine Revised Statutes Title 14, Section 6021 – Landlord-Tenant Law
2. Maine Landlord-Tenant Checklist (PDF)
3. Maine District Court - Landlord/Tenant Info
4. Pine Tree Legal Assistance - Renters' Rights

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