Student Housing Rights in Maine: A Guide for College Renters

Renting as a college student in Maine comes with unique questions. Whether you live off-campus in an apartment or rent a room, understanding your rights as a renter can help avoid misunderstandings and protect both you and your landlord. Maine’s laws apply to student renters, just like other tenants, ensuring fair housing, clear eviction processes, and maintenance standards.

Your Rights as a Student Renter in Maine

Maine law treats college renters the same as other tenants. You have fundamental rights related to safe housing, privacy, and due process. These rights are outlined under the Maine Residential Landlord and Tenant Act and are enforced by local courts and, if needed, the Maine Judicial Branch, which handles residential tenancy disputes.

Essential Protections Include:

• Receiving a written lease or rental agreement, if one is required
• Protection against discrimination based on student status, race, national origin, or disability (per the Maine Human Rights Act)
• The right to a safe, clean, and habitable living space
• Advance written notice before entry by your landlord, except in emergencies
• Proper notice and a court process before eviction

Leases, Rent, and Security Deposits

Student renters often sign short-term leases, but all lease types in Maine must contain certain basics:

• Rental Terms: Lease agreements must spell out rent amount, payment due date, and responsibilities for utilities and repairs.
• Security Deposit: In Maine, the maximum security deposit is equivalent to two months’ rent for most private, non-subsidized rentals. Landlords must return the deposit within 30 days of the tenancy ending if not needed for repairs or unpaid rent. (Security Deposit Law)

Common Rental Forms

• Eviction Notice (Notice to Quit, Form CR-CV-077): Used if you receive a formal request to leave for reasons like nonpayment of rent, lease violations, or after the lease term ends. Your landlord must provide written notice (usually 7 or 30 days, depending on the situation).
  See the official template and instructions at the Maine Judicial Branch Forms Page.
  Example: If you fall behind on rent, you might be served a Notice to Quit requiring you to pay or move out within 7 days.
• Complaint for Forcible Entry and Detainer (FED, Form CV-007): This form starts an official eviction case in court. If you disagree with the eviction, you’ll get a copy and instructions on how to respond. Download Complaint for FED – Form CV-007.
  Example: If you stay past your notice period, the landlord might file this to get a court order for eviction.

Eviction Rules for Student Renters

Student renters cannot be forced out without due process. Under Maine law, landlords must go through a formal eviction process called Forcible Entry and Detainer (FED) in court. You are entitled to proper notice and the chance to appear in court before any eviction is finalized.

• Most evictions require a written notice stating the reason and the deadline to leave.
• If you’re evicted for nonpayment and pay the amount due before the notice expires, you may be able to stay.
• Landlords cannot evict you as retaliation for reporting habitability issues or legal violations.

Maintenance and Repairs: Your Rights and Steps

Your landlord is responsible for keeping your housing safe and livable. This includes heating, plumbing, and making sure all local building codes are met. If your landlord won’t perform necessary repairs, you may submit a written request.

• If urgent repairs are not addressed, you can file a complaint with your local code enforcement office.
• Withholding rent is only allowed under specific circumstances under Maine law, so consult resources or legal aid first.

Official Tribunal or Board for Tenancy Issues

Rental disputes and eviction cases in Maine are handled by the Maine District Court. For guidance on what to expect, see their landlord-tenant information page.

FAQ: Maine Student Housing Rights

1. Can my landlord refuse to rent to me because I am a student?
   Maine’s fair housing laws generally prevent discrimination based on student status, but landlords can set reasonable requirements such as co-signers or income minimums. Check details in the Maine Human Rights Act.
2. Do I need a written lease, or is a verbal agreement valid?
   Both lease types are valid. However, a written lease is recommended for clarity and proof. Either way, you have legal protections as a tenant.
3. How long does my landlord have to return my security deposit?
   Deposits must be returned within 30 days of moving out, less any deductions for damages or unpaid rent. Details can be found under Maine's Security Deposit Law.
4. What should I do if I receive an eviction notice?
   Read the notice carefully, know your deadline to act, and consider contacting legal aid or filing a response with the court using the appropriate forms. The Maine Judicial Branch landlord-tenant forms page can help.
5. Who do I contact if my landlord won't make essential repairs?
   First, provide a written request to your landlord. If not resolved, contact your local code enforcement office or get advice from the MaineHousing Renters Help line.

Summary and Key Takeaways

• Maine law protects student renters’ basic rights, including fair process for eviction and safe housing.
• Written leases, proper notice requirements, and complaint forms are available for all renters—including students.
• State resources and official forms can support you in addressing issues with your landlord.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maine District Court: Landlord-Tenant Disputes — Get explanations and access court forms.
• Maine Human Rights Commission — File a complaint about discrimination.
• Maine Housing Help for Renters — Information on renters’ rights and how to get help if you face eviction.
• Pine Tree Legal Assistance — Free legal help for low-income renters in Maine, including students.
• Your local town or city code enforcement office — For urgent health or safety issues in your rental.

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1. Maine Title 14: Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
2. Maine Judicial Branch — Landlord-Tenant Information
3. Maine Statutes: Security Deposit Law
4. Maine Human Rights Act — Housing Laws

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