Acknowledging and Celebrating Native American Heritage Month
Pine Tree Legal Assistance acknowledges and celebrates each November as Native American Heritage Month. The work of our Indigenous Peoples Unit is important to our work promoting fairness and justice for all. We are committed to finding a better path forward to support In
What happens if I am sued for a debt in Maine District Court?
What happens if I am sued for a debt in district court?
If you are sued for a debt in district court, the creditor is the Plaintiff and you are the Defendant.
Tenant's Repair and Deduct Form Letter
Caution! Repair and deduct can be a risky strategy - read our information about the Rights of Maine Renters in Unsafe or Unfit Housing before you try to use this form!
Maine Tenant's Notice of Warranty of Habitability Violation
Here is a sample form you can use if you need to inform a landlord in writing of an unsafe or unfit rental housing condition.
Rental Housing Standard Radon Disclosure Form for Landlords
Effective March 1, 2014, Maine landlords are required to test rental units for radon gas. More details here
We have linked below the Maine DHHS standard radon disclosure form, with their "Radon Tips" information attached.
Sample Letter: Maine Notice to Landlord of Bedbug Infestation
Here is a sample letter you can send to your landlord to notify them of bed bugs in your building. NOTE: This notice was drafted for use by Maine tenants. The laws may be different in other states.
Rights of Maine Renters: Unsafe or Unfit Housing
Maine law gives tenants an "implied warranty of habitability." This means that your landlord must promise that your home is safe and fit to live in.
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:
How To: Get Ready for a Disclosure Hearing in Maine
A disclosure hearing can happen once a creditor has a judgment against you for money you owe. Sometimes the creditor must take you to court to find out what property and income you have. This is called a disclosure hearing. This guide will walk you through what to expect at a disclosure hearing, and what you will need to know to go in prepared.… More