Maine Rent Increase Laws 2025: What Tenants Should Know

As housing costs continue to rise in Maine, understanding rent increase laws is essential for tenants. State law provides protections against sudden and excessive rent hikes, while some cities have additional rent control measures. Here’s what tenants should know about their rights.

Maine Rent Increase Laws 2025

Notice Requirements:
- Standard Increase: Landlords must give at least 45 days’ written notice before raising rent.
- Large Increase (10% or more): If the increase is 10% or more (including multiple increases totaling 10% within a year), landlords must provide 75 days’ written notice.
- Mobile Homes: A 30-day notice is generally required for mobile home tenants.
Frequency: Landlords cannot raise the rent more than once every 12 months for the same tenant.
No Statewide Rent Cap: There is no limit on how much rent can be increased statewide, but proper notice is required for all increases.
Written Notice: All rent increases must be in writing, specifying the new amount and effective date.

Local Rent Control

Portland and South Portland: These cities have rent control ordinances that limit annual rent increases. For example, Portland’s 2025 allowable increase is 2.5% for most units, with some exemptions and special rules for new tenancies and banked increases.
Other Cities: Most Maine cities do not have rent control, but local laws may change.

Tenant Protections

Recourse: If a landlord fails to provide proper notice, tenants may recover rent, interest, and attorney’s fees.
No Retaliation: Landlords cannot raise rent in retaliation for tenants exercising their legal rights.
Documentation: Tenants should keep copies of all rent increase notices.

Summary Table

Situation	Required Notice	Additional Notes
Standard rent increase	45 days	Must be in writing
Increase of 10% or more	75 days	Includes cumulative increases
Mobile home rent increase	30 days	Must be in writing
Frequency of rent increases	Once per year	Must wait 12 months between hikes
Statewide rent cap	None	Except in Portland/South Portland
Local rent control (Portland)	Varies	Max: 2.5% for 2025

What Tenants Should Do

Check Your Lease: Some leases may offer extra protections.
Stay Informed: Be aware of local ordinances if you live in Portland or South Portland.
Keep Records: Save all notices and communications with your landlord.
Report Violations: Contact the Maine Attorney General’s office if you believe your rights have been violated.

These laws help ensure tenants have time to plan and adapt to rent increases, promoting fairness and stability in the rental market.

Sources: