Maine Rent Increases

Your landlord can raise your rent in Maine if you are a tenant at will. Your landlord must give you a 45 day written notice of any pending rent increase. If he does not do this, you have two possible choices.

• You can refuse to pay the increase, or
  
  
• You can pay under protest and later sue your landlord for the amount you were overcharged. You can ask the court to order the landlord to pay for your court costs and lawyer's fees. You can also sue in Small Claims Court without a lawyer.

If you choose not to pay the increase, be aware that your landlord can try to evict you.

If you have a lease, the landlord probably cannot increase the rent during the lease term unless it is stated in the lease. Be sure to thoroughly read your lease.

If you live in subsidized housing, your rent is based on your income so it can be raised or lowered if your income changes. Read your lease.