Maine Tenant Rights: Utility Shutoff Protections Explained

If you rent a home or apartment in Maine, you may worry about losing electric, heat, or water—especially if your landlord is responsible for the utility bills or you’re facing financial hardship. Understanding your rights and Maine’s utility shutoff protections can help you stay safe and maintain essential services, even in challenging times.

Understanding Utility Shutoff Rules for Renters in Maine

Maine law requires utility companies to follow strict rules before shutting off key services. This helps protect renters from sudden loss of heat, electricity, or water—especially during dangerous weather or if someone in the home is at risk. The Public Utilities Commission (PUC) and the Maine Office of the Public Advocate are official sources for these protections.

Which Utilities Are Protected?

• Electricity
• Natural Gas
• Water (for regulated water utilities)

Generally, privately-owned (unregulated) wells or fuel oil are not protected by PUC rules.

When Can Utilities Be Shut Off?

• Only after proper notice to the account holder (landlord or tenant whose name is on the bill)
• After attempts to set up payment arrangements
• Not during certain protected periods, such as the winter months from November 15 to April 15 (for most heat-related electric shutoffs)

Special Protections for Renters

• If you receive a disconnect notice but your landlord is responsible for utility payments, utilities must attempt to notify tenants before shutting off service.
• Maine law allows tenants to make “third-party notifications” to local housing officials or social service agencies if disconnection is threatened.

Medical Emergencies and Vulnerable Households

Renters can request a temporary utility shutoff postponement if there is a medical emergency in the home. Forms and a physician’s statement may be required. Utilities generally must delay shutoff for up to 30 days in these cases.

Tip: If you receive a shutoff notice, act promptly by calling your utility company and, if needed, your local General Assistance office for help.

Relevant Official Forms

• Medical Emergency Waiver Request (varies by utility)
• When to use: Ask your doctor or healthcare provider to fill out the form if you or someone in your home needs utility service for medical reasons, and send it to your utility before the shutoff date.
• Find Medical Certification Forms and Details from the Maine Office of the Public Advocate
• Tenant Notification (PUC)
• When to use: Tenants whose landlord pays for utilities may receive a notification from the utility. If a shutoff is threatened, you can contact the PUC or local General Assistance to intervene.
• Learn about Utility Shutoff Tenant Rights from the Maine PUC

What To Do If You Face a Utility Shutoff

• Call your utility provider immediately to explain your situation and ask about payment arrangements.
• If the landlord is responsible for utilities and you receive a notice, contact the Maine Public Utilities Commission and your local General Assistance office right away.
• If you have a vulnerable household member or a medical emergency, have your healthcare provider submit the medical certification form to the utility.
• Keep copies of all notices, letters, and documentation for your records.

If you believe a shutoff was done improperly, you can file a complaint with the Maine Public Utilities Commission or get help from the Maine Office of the Public Advocate.

Which Agency Handles Utility Shutoff Complaints?

The Maine Public Utilities Commission (PUC) oversees rules about utility shutoffs and tenant protections. This agency can intervene if a shutoff is improper or if renters need special assistance.

Applicable law: Maine Revised Statutes Title 35-A – Public Utilities.

FAQ: Maine Utility Shutoff Rules for Renters

1. Can my landlord shut off my utilities in Maine?
   If the landlord pays for utilities, they generally cannot interrupt service to force a tenant to move. Only the utility company can shut off utilities, and they must follow PUC procedures.
2. What if I get a shutoff notice but pay rent that includes utilities?
   You should contact the utility company and inform the Maine Public Utilities Commission right away—special tenant protection steps may apply.
3. Are there protections during the winter months?
   Yes, there are strict rules and moratoriums limiting heat-related utility shutoffs from November 15 to April 15, especially for vulnerable households.
4. How do I request a medical emergency utility shutoff waiver?
   Contact your provider and have your healthcare professional complete a medical certification form and send it to the utility as soon as possible.
5. Who do I call if my utilities are shut off without warning?
   Call the Maine Public Utilities Commission consumer hotline and your local General Assistance office. Keep any documentation and act as soon as possible.

Key Takeaways for Maine Renters

• Utility shutoffs are highly regulated in Maine, and tenants have rights—even if the landlord pays for service.
• Special protections apply to medical emergencies and winter months.
• Act quickly and use official forms if you receive a shutoff notice. Contact the appropriate agencies for help and documentation.

Knowing your protections and how to respond can help you stay safe and maintain essential utility services.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maine PUC: Utility Shutoff Protections for Tenants – Guides and complaint process
• Maine Office of the Public Advocate – Utility complaint help and forms
• General Assistance (DHHS) – Emergency local help with utility disconnections

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1. Maine Public Utilities Commission
2. Maine Revised Statutes Title 35-A – Public Utilities
3. Maine Office of the Public Advocate: Utility Shutoff Protection

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