Maine security deposit law

The rule

Deposit limit

2 months’ rent

Return deadline

30 days

Interest owed

Not required

Itemized deductions

Required

The deadline

A written lease can set up to 30 days. For a tenancy at will, 21 days after the tenancy ends or the unit is surrendered, whichever is later.

Interest

State law doesn’t require interest on the deposit.

Deductions

The landlord must give you an itemized list of anything kept from the deposit.

If it isn’t returned

Missing the deadline forfeits the right to withhold. Wrongful retention costs double the amount withheld plus attorney’s fees; the tenant must first give 7 days’ notice of intent to sue (§ 6034). Does not apply to owner-occupied buildings of 5 or fewer units.