Understanding Rent Stabilization Rules in Maine

Many renters in Maine worry about rising rents and want to know what protections or rules exist to keep housing affordable. Rent stabilization is a policy that limits how much and how often landlords can raise the rent, commonly found in some cities and states. This article explains how (and if) rent stabilization works in Maine, what laws govern rent increases, and what steps renters can take to address changes in their housing costs.

Are There Statewide Rent Stabilization Laws in Maine?

Maine does not currently have statewide rent control or rent stabilization laws. Instead, rent increases are generally governed by market factors and the lease agreement between the landlord and tenant. There are, however, important requirements for notice and anti-gouging laws that apply to all rental properties in Maine.

Local Rent Control in Maine

As of 2024, the city of Portland, Maine, is the only municipality in the state with an active rent control (rent stabilization) ordinance. Most renters elsewhere in Maine do not benefit from rent caps or controls on the frequency and amount of rent increases unless local laws are enacted.

• Portland Rent Control Information

In Portland, landlords are limited in how much they can raise rent on existing tenants in most cases, with allowable increases tied to inflation (the Consumer Price Index) or set by the city. The city's Residential Rental Properties ordinance provides detailed requirements and exceptions.

Notice Requirements for Rent Increases in Maine

The main legal protection for renters statewide is the required notice period for rent increases, set by Maine Revised Statutes Title 14, Section 6015. Landlords must provide written notice at least 45 days before the proposed effective date of any rent increase.

• The notice must be in writing (paper or electronic if the lease allows).
• For month-to-month tenancies, if tenants do not accept the increase, they may end the tenancy with 30 days' written notice.

Portland has its own, often stricter, notice requirements; tenants in Portland should consult the city's Rent Board for up-to-date information.

Relevant Forms and How to Use Them

• Notice of Rent Increase (No official state form number):
  • When to use: Landlords must give this written notice to inform tenants of a rent increase. Tenants should receive it at least 45 days before the new rent takes effect.
  • How it's used: For example, if you receive a letter or email from your landlord announcing a higher rent, double-check that you received it at least 45 days in advance. If not, the increase may not be valid.
  • Reference: See Maine Notice of Rent Increase Law.

How Renters Can Challenge Illegal Rent Increases

If you believe a proposed rent increase violates local or state law, you have several options:

• Talk with your landlord and show them the relevant law or local ordinance.
• Contact your local municipality's housing office or, if you live in Portland, the Portland Rent Board for an official review or mediation.
• If the increase is discriminatory or in retaliation for asserting your rights, you can file a complaint with the Maine CDC Housing Program.

Enforcement of residential rental agreements statewide is primarily handled by Maine's court system; there is no dedicated housing tribunal. Portland renters can contact the Portland Rent Board directly.

Landlord-Tenant Laws in Maine

All renters and landlords in Maine are governed by the Maine Revised Statutes Title 14, Chapter 709: Residential Landlord and Tenant Act¹. This law covers forms of tenancies, rent increase notices, eviction procedures, housing conditions, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Maine have state-wide rent control or rent stabilization?
   No. Maine does not have a state-wide rent control law. Rent stabilization currently applies only in the city of Portland.
2. How much notice must my landlord give before raising my rent?
   State law requires at least 45 days' written notice before any rent increase takes effect for most residential rentals.
3. What should I do if I think a rent increase is illegal or retaliatory?
   Collect your documentation, discuss the matter with your landlord, and contact your local housing authority or the Portland Rent Board if you live in Portland. You can also consider consulting a legal services agency.
4. Are there limits to how much rent can be increased in Portland?
   Yes. Portland has specific rules that tie rent increases to inflation and limit how much rent can be raised annually, with some exceptions.
5. Where can I find more information or help with a rent dispute?
   Contact the Portland Rent Board for Portland-specific issues, or see the Maine Judicial Branch and housing resources listed below.

Conclusion: What Maine Renters Should Know

• Maine does not have state-wide rent stabilization, but Portland offers local rent control protections.
• All landlords must give at least 45 days' written notice before increasing rent anywhere in the state.
• If you have concerns about rent increases, review your lease and consult local housing offices or legal services.

Staying informed and knowing your rights as a renter is the best defense against unfair practices.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maine Judicial Branch – Landlord-Tenant Overview
• Portland Rent Board (Tribunal for Portland Rent Control and Disputes)
• Maine Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
• Maine Pine Tree Legal: Tenant Rights Guide
• Maine CDC Housing Program: Complaint Contact

---

¹ See Maine Revised Statutes Title 14, Chapter 709 for the full text and updates on Maine residential landlord-tenant law.

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations