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Maine security deposit law
Short answer: A Maine landlord must return the deposit, or an itemized written statement of what's kept with the balance, within the time the lease sets (no more than 30 days), or within 21 days for a tenancy at will. Deposits are capped at two months' rent.
| Deadline to return the deposit | For a written lease, the time stated in the lease, but no more than 30 days. For a tenancy at will, 21 days after the tenancy ends or the landlord accepts the keys, whichever is later. |
|---|---|
| Limit on how much a landlord can charge | Two months' rent. |
| Itemized list of deductions | Yes. A written statement itemizing the reasons for anything kept, sent with full payment of the balance. |
| Interest on the deposit | Not required by state law. |
| Penalty if the landlord breaks the rules | A landlord who misses the deadline forfeits the right to keep any of the deposit. Wrongful retention can cost double the amount wrongly withheld, plus attorney's fees and court costs. |
| What the tenant has to do | Before suing, give the landlord at least 7 days' notice that you plan to take legal action. If the deposit still isn't returned, the landlord is presumed to be keeping it wrongfully. |
| The law | Maine Revised Statutes Title 14, Sections 6032 to 6034 |
Official law: Maine Revised Statutes Title 14, Sections 6032 to 6034. Checked against the statute on 2026-11-04.
Good to know
- Normal wear and tear can't be deducted.
- Allowed reasons include storing and disposing of property the tenant left behind, unpaid rent, and unpaid utilities owed directly to the landlord.
- Mailing the statement and payment to the tenant's last known address counts as on time.
- In a lawsuit, the landlord has to prove the withholding wasn't wrongful.
Tips for landlords
- Do a written move-in inspection and have the tenant sign it. Take dated photos of every room, including inside appliances and closets.
- Collect the tenant's forwarding address in writing at move-out.
- Put the itemized list and the refund in the mail well before the deadline, and keep proof of mailing.
- Normal wear and tear (faded paint, light carpet wear, small nail holes) usually can't be charged. Damage beyond that can.
Tips for tenants
- Take your own dated photos and video on move-in day and move-out day.
- Give your landlord your forwarding address in writing, and keep a copy.
- If the deadline passes, send a written demand letter that cites the law above before going to small claims court.
Common questions
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Maine?
For a written lease, the time stated in the lease, but no more than 30 days. For a tenancy at will, 21 days after the tenancy ends or the landlord accepts the keys, whichever is later.
Is there a limit on security deposits in Maine?
Two months' rent.
Does a landlord in Maine have to itemize deductions?
Yes. A written statement itemizing the reasons for anything kept, sent with full payment of the balance.