Eviction Laws for Landlords in Maine: Evicting a tenant in Maine in 2025 requires strict adherence to legal procedure, proper documentation, and patience. Maine law protects tenants from unlawful removal, and if you’re a landlord—whether in Portland, Augusta, Bangor, or a rural county—you must go through the courts. Skipping steps, using verbal warnings, or changing locks could not only delay the process but also expose you to civil lawsuits and fines.

In this updated legal guide, we’ll walk you through every eviction step, share real-world examples, and help you avoid common pitfalls that cost landlords thousands every year in Maine.

Understanding Eviction Rights in Maine (2025)

Landlords in Maine cannot evict a tenant without a court order. This applies whether you’re dealing with unpaid rent, lease violations, or simply want to remove a month-to-month tenant. The eviction process is called a “Forcible Entry and Detainer” (FED), and it is handled in District Court.

Here’s a breakdown of what’s legal in 2025:

• No self-help evictions – You cannot disconnect utilities, change locks, or remove a tenant’s belongings.
• Notice must be written – A proper notice to terminate tenancy or correct the issue is mandatory.
• Court involvement is required – Even if the tenant admits wrongdoing, you still must follow legal steps.

Legal Grounds to Evict in Maine

Maine law recognizes two primary types of eviction:

1. At-Fault (For-Cause) Evictions

This includes:

• Nonpayment of rent
• Lease violations (pets, guests, noise, smoking, etc.)
• Illegal activity on the premises
• Damage to property
• Health and safety violations

2. No-Fault Evictions

Used when:

• Lease has ended, and landlord chooses not to renew
• Property is being sold or demolished
• Landlord is moving into the rental

⚠️ In Maine, you cannot remove a tenant mid-lease without cause unless both parties agree to terminate.

Eviction Process in Maine – Step-by-Step for Landlords

Let’s explore each required legal step for eviction in Maine in 2025:

Step 1: Serve a Written Notice to Quit

The process starts with a written Notice to Quit. The type of notice depends on the reason for eviction.

Common Notices:

• 7-Day Notice to Quit for Nonpayment of Rent
  • Can be served if rent is 7+ days late.
  • Must clearly state the total owed and the date by which the tenant must vacate.
• 7-Day Notice for Lease Violation
  • Used if the tenant breaks lease terms (e.g., unauthorized pets, damage).
  • No cure option is required for repeat or serious violations.
• 30-Day Notice to Terminate Tenancy (No-Cause)
  • For month-to-month tenants.
  • Cannot be used to terminate a fixed lease before its expiration.

Proper Delivery Methods Include:

• Personal service to tenant
• Service to a responsible person at the unit
• Posting on the door and mailing a copy

Step 2: File a Forcible Entry and Detainer (FED) Complaint

If the tenant refuses to vacate after the notice period:

• File a FED Complaint in the District Court where the property is located.
• Pay the required filing fee (approx. $100).
• Court will issue a Summons and Notice of Hearing, usually within 10–14 days.

You’ll need:

• A copy of the lease
• The served notice
• Proof of service (witness affidavit or certificate of mailing)

Step 3: Attend the Eviction Hearing

At the hearing, both parties can present evidence. Judges in Maine require landlords to show:

• A valid lease agreement
• Proper notice served within correct timeframe
• Proof of the tenant’s violation or nonpayment

If you win, the court issues a judgment of possession and a writ of possession within a few days.

Step 4: Enforce the Writ of Possession

If the tenant still doesn’t move out after judgment:

• A law enforcement officer (usually a sheriff) serves the Writ of Possession.
• This gives the tenant 48 hours to leave.
• If they don’t leave, the sheriff physically removes them.

⚠️ Only a sheriff can enforce an eviction. You cannot remove a tenant yourself.

Handling Belongings Left Behind by the Tenant

In Maine, landlords must:

• Store belongings for at least 7 days
• Notify the tenant in writing
• Allow them to reclaim property
• After 7 days, you may dispose of or sell the items

Failure to follow this may lead to damage claims by the tenant.

Case Study: Successful Eviction in Portland, Maine (2025)

Landlord Profile:
Mary D., a landlord in Portland, rented her duplex to a couple who failed to pay rent for two consecutive months.

Eviction Timeline:

• March 5: Rent was due and unpaid
• March 12: 7-Day Notice to Quit for Nonpayment issued and mailed
• March 20: No payment received, Mary filed an FED complaint
• April 3: Court hearing held; tenant didn’t appear
• April 6: Judgment granted to Mary
• April 10: Sheriff served Writ of Possession
• April 12: Tenants vacated under sheriff’s supervision

Outcome: Mary regained control of the unit in just over a month and avoided costly delays by following every step to the letter.

Avoiding Common Mistakes During Eviction in Maine

Landlords in Maine frequently make these errors that cost them their case:

• Incorrect notice timelines – Example: Serving a 30-day notice for nonpayment instead of a 7-day
• Failure to provide written notice
• Accepting partial rent after serving notice (this may restart the clock)
• Improper service method – Notices must be delivered legally
• Not appearing at the hearing

Tip: Always document every communication and transaction with the tenant.

What if the Tenant Files a Defense?

Maine courts allow tenants to delay or stop eviction by filing defenses such as:

• Rent was withheld due to unsafe living conditions (landlord didn’t make repairs)
• Landlord failed to follow notice procedure
• Retaliation – If tenant recently reported you to a housing authority
• Discrimination claims – Based on protected status (race, gender, disability, etc.)

Be ready to disprove these claims with written evidence.

Special Rules for Subsidized or Section 8 Housing in Maine

If the tenant receives government assistance:

• Evictions must comply with federal HUD guidelines
• 30-day notices are required, even for nonpayment in some cases
• Landlords must inform the local housing authority

Failure to follow these special rules can result in eviction denial, especially in counties like Cumberland or Androscoggin.

Recent Updates to Maine Eviction Law in 2025

The Maine Legislature enacted a few relevant changes in 2025:

• Digital lease agreements and e-signatures are now fully enforceable
• Landlords must retain notice records for 12 months
• Rental assistance portals must be checked before eviction (in pandemic-declared counties)

Always stay current with Pine Tree Legal Assistance or the Maine Judicial Branch website.

Can I Use a Property Manager or Attorney?

Yes. In fact, if you own multiple units or live out of state:

• Hiring a Maine-based attorney ensures you follow state-specific legalities.
• A licensed property management firm can serve notices, track compliance, and attend hearings on your behalf.

Final Thoughts for Maine Landlords in 2025

Eviction is stressful and time-consuming, but being thorough, calm, and law-abiding will work in your favor. Maine courts respect landlords who do their homework and treat tenants fairly. If you’re patient and organized, eviction doesn’t have to become a nightmare.

Best practices to remember:

• Serve the right notice and deliver it correctly
• Never threaten, harass, or lock out a tenant
• Keep all documentation
• Attend court fully prepared with evidence
• Always comply with post-eviction property storage laws

If you’re unsure, consult an attorney before the situation spirals.