Portland Maine Landlord Tenant Rules - December 2020
Important Resources to Prevent Eviction
Getting evicted? Worried you might be soon?
COVID-19 & Rights of Maine Renters: CDC Eviction Ban Struck Down
The CDC issued an order banning some evictions. This order has been struck down by the Supreme Court. Learn how you can protect your housing.
COVID-19 Stimulus Checks & Public Benefits Eligibility in Maine
Posted and up-to-date on 4/29/2020
Introduction
Many people who will get a stimulus check under the CARES Act may also receive public benefits. You may be worried about whether getting a stimulus check will change your eligibility for public benefits.
Maine Public Benefits & COVID-19 FAQ
Posted and up-to-date on 12/15/2020
I need MaineCare, TANF, and/or SNAP (food stamps), where do I go to apply?
These services are run through the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).
COVID-19 Maine Eviction & Rental Housing FAQ
Important Resources to Prevent Eviction
Getting evicted? Worried you might be soon?
Rights of Maine Renters: Eviction
Can my landlord turn off my utilities or change the locks on my door or kick me out without going to court? No. It is illegal for your landlord to throw you out by force. Your landlord must get a court order before they evict you.
Rights of Maine Renters: Types of Rental Agreements
The agreement you make with your landlord affects what rights you will have. You may sign a written agreement called a lease. When you rent without a lease, you become a "tenant at will."
Rights of Maine Renters: Abandoned Property
en español
Rights of Maine Renters: Heat and Utility Charges for Common Areas
If you live in an apartment building, you may find out that you are paying for heat, lights, or other utilities for "common areas." This includes, for example, hallways, basements, or a common hot water heater or furnace.
It is illegal for your landlord to make you pay those costs alone. For example, the hall lights should not be hooked up to your… More
Rights of Maine Renters: Cable TV, Dishes, and Antennas
If I live in an apartment building, can my landlord stop me from getting cable TV, a satellite dish or an antenna?
Generally, no. Your landlord can only refuse to allow these installations if they have "good cause" to deny that particular company. "Good cause" could be: