Understanding Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) Rentals in Maine

Finding a safe, affordable place to rent can be hard—especially if you’re worried about rising rents or unexpected changes. In Maine, the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program helps make housing more affordable by supporting the development and availability of rental units with lower rents for income-qualified households.

What Is the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) Program?

LIHTC is a federal incentive program that encourages private developers to build and maintain affordable rental properties for people with low or moderate incomes. In Maine, these properties are overseen by the Maine State Housing Authority (MaineHousing).

• Guaranteed affordability: Rents are capped based on area median income (AMI).
• Income limits: Eligible applicants typically must have household incomes below specified thresholds—often 60% of the AMI. Each property lists its own requirements.
• Tenant protections: Residents of LIHTC properties generally have the same rights as other tenants under Maine law.

LIHTC apartments are not public housing—they are privately owned, but must meet federal and state affordability requirements in exchange for tax credits.

Eligibility and Application Process for LIHTC Rentals in Maine

To qualify for a LIHTC apartment in Maine, you'll need to meet both income and household eligibility rules. The process usually involves applying directly to the management company or landlord overseeing each LIHTC property.

• Check eligibility by comparing your household income to the property's published limits.
• Complete an application (obtained from the property manager).
• Provide supporting documents (proof of income, identification, etc.).
• Wait for a decision or to be placed on a waiting list, as demand often exceeds supply.

You can search for available LIHTC apartments or get contact information using MaineHousing's Affordable Housing Search.

Forms You May Encounter

• MaineHousing Affordable Rental Housing Application (no number): Used by renters to apply for affordable units in properties overseen by MaineHousing. Download the Application.
  Example: If you want to be considered for a LIHTC apartment, fill out this application and submit it to the relevant property manager.
• Reasonable Accommodation Request Form: If you have a disability and need a change in rules, policies, or accommodations, use this form. Get the Reasonable Accommodation Form.
  Example: A renter who needs a grab bar in the bathroom or an assistance animal should submit this form to the property manager.

Tenant Rights and Protections in LIHTC Housing

Even though LIHTC units are affordable, your rights as a tenant are protected by Maine’s Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Title 14, Chapter 709).^[1] You have the right to:

• Live in a safe, habitable home
• Receive proper notice before any rent increase or lease changes
• Be free from discrimination, including disability- and family-status discrimination
• Receive due process if facing eviction or lease termination

Disagreements between tenants and landlords, including those in LIHTC rentals, can be resolved in the Maine District Court (Eviction / Landlord-Tenant Division).

What If You Face Eviction or Problems?

If you are threatened with eviction or believe your rights have been violated, you can:

• Contact MaineHousing for housing concerns
• Apply for legal help through Pine Tree Legal Assistance
• Respond using any official forms served by the landlord or court, like the "Answer to Complaint for Forcible Entry and Detainer" form used when responding to an eviction notice (find this form at Maine District Court forms)

For more about the eviction process and your rights, visit the official Landlord-Tenant page for Maine District Courts.

FAQ: LIHTC Housing and Your Tenant Rights in Maine

1. Who is eligible to rent a LIHTC apartment in Maine?
   Most LIHTC apartments require your household income to be below a certain percentage of the area median income. Each property sets its own limits, so check with the property manager.
2. How do rent increases work in LIHTC housing?
   Rent is generally capped as a percentage of income or area median income and can only be raised within limits set under federal and state rules.
3. Can my landlord evict me from a LIHTC unit for any reason?
   No. Landlords must follow Maine's eviction process—and can only evict for reasons like nonpayment of rent, lease violations, or other legal grounds, as described in Maine law.
4. What can I do if I need a disability accommodation?
   You can fill out a Reasonable Accommodation Request Form and give it to the landlord or property manager, who must consider your request under fair housing laws.
5. Who handles disputes between tenants and landlords in Maine?
   For LIHTC or any rental properties, the Maine District Court (Landlord-Tenant) division resolves eviction and other tenancy disputes.

Key Takeaways for Maine Renters in LIHTC Housing

• LIHTC properties provide rent-capped, income-based housing throughout Maine.
• Your rights are protected by state and federal law—never ignore notices or court paperwork.
• Resources like MaineHousing and Maine District Courts help protect and enforce renter rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• MaineHousing Affordable Housing Search Tool – Find and apply for LIHTC units statewide.
• Pine Tree Legal Assistance – Free legal support for renters facing eviction or discrimination.
• Maine District Court: Landlord-Tenant Division – Handles eviction cases and other tenancy matters.
• Maine Department of Health and Human Services – If you need to report issues impacting children or safety in the home.

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1. Maine’s Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Title 14, Chapter 709)
2. Maine State Housing Authority (MaineHousing)
3. Maine District Court – Landlord-Tenant Information

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