Maine Tenant Rights
Maine has strong tenant protections, including one of the longest grace periods (15 days) and strict late fee caps.
Security Deposit
- Maximum allowed
- 2 months' rent
- Return deadline
- 30 days (or 21 days if lease specifies)
- Itemized deductions required
- Yes
Landlord Entry
- Notice required
- 24 hours
- Emergency exception
- Yes — landlord may enter without notice in genuine emergencies
Notice to Vacate
- Month-to-month
- 30 days
- Fixed-term lease
- No notice required — ends automatically
Rent Control
- Statewide rent control
- No
- Local ordinances allowed
- Yes
- Details
- No statewide rent control, but Portland enacted rent control in 2020.
Late Fees & Grace Period
- Grace period
- 15 days
- Late fee limit
- 4% of monthly rent
Early Lease Termination
Early termination for military deployment, uninhabitable conditions, domestic violence. Landlord must mitigate.
Key Statutes & Laws
- Maine Revised Statutes Title 14 § 6001-6046
Frequently Asked Questions — Maine Tenant Rights
What is the security deposit limit in Maine?
In Maine, the security deposit limit is 2 months' rent. Landlords must return the deposit within 30 days (or 21 days if lease specifies).
How much notice must a Maine landlord give before entering?
Maine requires 24 hours before landlord entry. Emergencies are exempt from notice requirements.
Does Maine have rent control?
No statewide rent control, but Portland enacted rent control in 2020.
Can I break my lease early in Maine?
Early termination for military deployment, uninhabitable conditions, domestic violence. Landlord must mitigate.
What is the late fee grace period in Maine?
15 days. Late fee limit: 4% of monthly rent.
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This guide provides general information about Maine tenant rights and is not legal advice. Laws change — always verify current statutes with your local tenant rights organization or a licensed attorney. Last updated March 2026.