Is a 5% late fee legal in Maine?

Yes, a 5% late fee is legal in Maine as long as it is considered reasonable and specified in the lease.

What is the grace period for rent in Maine?

Maine does not specify a statutory grace period for rent payments.

How do I calculate late fees in Maine?

To calculate late fees in Maine, multiply your monthly rent by the agreed-upon late fee percentage (typically between 5% and 10%). Use our calculator for precise calculations.

What are landlord rights for late fees in Maine?

Landlords in Maine can charge late fees as long as they are reasonable and outlined in the lease agreement.

Can I dispute a late fee in Maine?

Yes, tenants can dispute a late fee if it exceeds what is stated in the lease or if it is deemed unreasonable.

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Maine Rent Late Fee Calculator

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Maine Regulations

State-specific late fee rules

Grace Period

15 days

Max Percentage

Daily Rates

Not Allowed

Maximum 4% of monthly rent. 15-day grace period required (rent not late until day 16). Must provide written notice at lease signing. Strictest caps in nation.

More Maine Rental Law Tools

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Grace Period Calculator

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Security Deposit Calculator

Check maximum deposit limits and refund deadlines for Maine

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Maine's Tenant-Protective Framework

Maine's regulations surrounding rent late fees are considered tenant-protective, setting strict limitations on the amount landlords can charge. The maximum allowable late fee is 4% of the monthly rent, and a grace period of 15 days is required before a fee can be assessed. This framework ensures that tenants are not unduly penalized for minor delays in payment.(Title 14, §6028)

Primary Statute

Title 14, §6028

Governs the imposition of late fees for rent payments

Related Statutes

Title 14, §6030

Regulates security deposits

Understanding Maine's Cap on Late Fees

In Maine, landlords must adhere to a strict cap on rent late fees, which cannot exceed 4% of the monthly rent. This cap is among the strictest in the nation, reflecting the state's commitment to protecting tenants from excessive financial penalties. Landlords must provide written notice of any late fee policies at the time the lease is signed.

Key Factors:

The fee cannot exceed 4% of the monthly rent amount.
A 15-day grace period is mandatory before late fees can be applied.
Written notice of late fee policies must be provided at lease signing.

Typical Range: Common market practice in Maine strictly follows the 4% cap as stipulated by law.

Court Guidance: Maine courts uphold the 4% cap and the 15-day grace period as a tenant protection measure, emphasizing the need for clear communication and documentation.

Municipal Regulations

Portland

Portland adheres to state laws with no additional regulations on rent late fees.

Learn more

Bangor

Bangor follows state guidelines on rent late fees, ensuring tenant protections are upheld.

Learn more

Recent Legislative Changes

July 2022

Reaffirmation of Rent Fee Caps

The Maine Legislature reaffirmed the 4% cap on rent late fees, emphasizing the necessity of a 15-day grace period to protect tenants from undue financial burden.

Comparing Maine to Neighboring States

Maine's tenant protections in terms of late fees are among the strictest compared to its neighboring states, providing significant safeguards for tenants.

New Hampshire

No statutory cap, but reasonableness applies

0 day grace period

Vermont

Reasonable fees as agreed in lease

0 day grace period

Massachusetts

Fees allowed after 30 days

30 day grace period

Best Practices for Landlords and Tenants

Landlord Best Practices:

•Provide clear, written notice of late fee policies at the time of lease signing.
•Ensure late fees do not exceed the 4% cap.
•Respect the 15-day grace period before imposing late fees.

Tenant Best Practices:

•Familiarize yourself with the 15-day grace period.
•Request a copy of the written notice regarding late fees at lease signing.
•Communicate promptly with your landlord if you expect a delay in rent payment.

Official Resources and Legal Assistance

Maine State Housing Authority

Provides information on housing rights and assistance programs.

Pine Tree Legal Assistance

Offers free legal assistance to low-income residents in Maine.

Frequently Asked Questions - Maine

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State Regulations Reference

Official source for Maine rent late fee regulations

Maximum 4% of monthly rent. 15-day grace period required (rent not late until day 16). Must provide written notice at lease signing. Strictest caps in nation.

View Official State Law →

Updated October 2025