Landlord-Tenant Law Guide
Maine Landlord-Tenant Laws
Maine's landlord-tenant law is outlined in Title 14, MRSA §§ 6001–6050. It has a 2-month deposit cap, requires 24 hours entry notice, and caps late fees at 4% with a 15-day grace period.
Key Rules at a Glance
Security Deposit Limit
2 months' rent
Hard cap statewide.
Deposit Return Deadline
30 days
With itemized written statement of deductions.
Notice to Enter
24 hours
Written notice required before non-emergency entry.
Rent Increase Notice
45 days
Written notice at least 45 days before a rent increase for month-to-month tenants.
Late Fee Cap
4% of monthly rent
Cannot be charged until rent is 15 days past due.
Nonpayment Eviction Notice
7 days
Written 7-day notice to pay or quit.
Lease Termination (Month-to-Month)
30 days (tenant) / 30 days (landlord)
Maine requires 30 days for month-to-month termination; just-cause eviction rules apply in some circumstances.
Disclaimer:Maine has additional protections for low-income tenants and restrictions on evictions during winter months in some circumstances. Consult a Maine attorney.
Prorated Rent Calculator
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Open →Late Rent Notice
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Open →Move-In Report
Document property condition.
Open →Frequently Asked Questions
What is the late fee cap in Maine?
4% of the monthly rent. Late fees cannot be charged until rent is more than 15 days past due.
How long does a Maine landlord have to return a security deposit?
30 days from move-out with an itemized written statement.
How do I evict a non-paying tenant in Maine?
Serve a written 7-day notice to pay or quit. If not cured within 7 days, file for forcible entry and detainer in district court.