Maine Landlord-Tenant Law

Maine has a low unemployment rate, which pairs nicely with one of the highest minimum wages in the country. Maine is also one of the safest states and has a smaller population, making it a great place to consider for those wanting to relocate. For those landlords considering purchasing rental property here, Maine ranks as a top 20 state for affordability. For our recommendations on exactly where to invest in this state, take a look at our Maine rental investment report – read below for guidance on Maine landlord-tenant law.

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Laws that impact the rental market, landlords, and tenants are constantly being decided in states. Make sure you know what’s on your ballot – find Maine voting information here.

Maine Renters' Rights and Landlord Responsibilities

  • Have 30 days to return security deposit
  • A 45-day notice required before raising rent
  • Must give a reasonable amount of notice before entering 
  • Required to make repairs within 14 days

When it comes to Maine rental laws, there are a few specifics landlords need to know:

  1. Security Deposit – Maine limits the amount a landlord may charge for the security deposit to the equivalent of two months’ rent. Landlords must return the deposit within 30 days of the tenant moving out.
  2. Raising Rent – Landlords in Maine may increase the rent to any amount for any reason with a 45-day notice.
  3. Notice of Entry – Maine requires landlords to give reasonable notice before entering the property.
  4. Repairs – It is the landlord’s responsibility to keep the rental in safe and healthy living conditions. Landlords must make repairs within 14 days after being notified by the tenant. If the landlord fails to make repairs within this time frame, tenants may withhold rent, or make the repairs themselves and deduct up to $500 or half a month’s rent.

Maine Landlords' Rights and Tenant Responsibilities

  • Tenants have seven days to pay rent after they receive a notice 
  • Must give a 30-day notice before terminating a lease
  • Tenants must keep the unit in a safe and habitable condition
  • The landlord must store abandoned property and attempt to contact tenant
  1. Overdue Rent – If a tenant fails to pay rent on time, the landlord must give them seven days’ notice to pay or quit. If the tenant fails to pay, the landlord may file for eviction. 
  2. Terminating a Lease – If a tenant needs to terminate a month-to-month lease, they must give the landlord a 30-day notice.
  3. Tenant Responsibilities – Tenants are required to keep the property clean, not disturb neighbors, and make small repairs.
  4. Abandoned Property – If a tenant moves out and leaves personal property, the landlord must notify them and store the property. After this period, if the property is worth more than $50, the landlord must turn it over to the State Treasurer.

Maine Landlord-Tenant Law FAQ

Below are answers to some of the most commonly-asked questions when it comes to landlord-tenant laws in Maine:

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Can You Withhold Rent in Maine?

Yes. Tenants may withhold rent if a landlord fails to make requested repairs.

How Long Does it Take to Evict a Tenant in Maine?

Evicting a tenant in Maine can take anywhere from one to two months, depending on the reason for eviction. 

Is Maine a Landlord-Friendly State?

Maine is a landlord-friendly state because of the lack of rent control laws. 

What is the Eviction Process in Maine?

There are five reasons a landlord may file for eviction in Maine. The five reasons include failure to pay rent, violation of the lease agreement, the end of the lease term, safety violation, and illegal activity. Depending on the violation, the landlord must give the tenant notice and anywhere from 7 to 30 days to cure their violation. 

If the tenant fails to cure or quit, then the landlord may file a complaint with the court, which costs $100. After the complaint is filed, it will be served to the tenant at least seven days before the hearing.

After the tenant is served with the summons, the hearing will be scheduled within 10 days.

If the court rules in favor of the landlord, then a writ of possession will be issued seven days later. The tenant will then need to move out within 48 hours.

How Much Notice Does a Landlord Have to Give a Tenant to Move Out in Maine?

Landlords must give a 30-day notice before asking a tenant to vacate the property.

Due Diligence and Maine Rental Laws

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TurboTenant has utilized many municipal sources along with official state statutes in order to compile this information to the best of our ability. However, local laws are always in flux, and landlords and tenants alike should do their due diligence and consult legal help when it’s needed. We hope the following list can serve as a valuable resource and allow you to succeed as a landlord or tenant in Maine. Be sure to take proper precautions when it comes to finding the top candidates for your unit by utilizing our online rental application and tenant screening services.

Disclaimer: TurboTenant, Inc does not provide legal advice. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only. All users are advised to check all applicable local, state, and federal laws, and consult legal counsel should questions arise.

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Maine Landlord-Tenant Law Resources

Maine Fair Housing Resources

Other State Resources

Maine Associations

Maine City-Specific Housing Resources

Portland

Lewiston

Bangor

South Portland

Federal Fair Housing Resources

 

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