Tenant FAQs

Properties are typically rented on a first-come, first-served basis with a completed application, application fee, and all required documentation. We cannot guarantee a hold without these items. We recommend applying as soon as possible to secure your rental.

Move-in costs vary by property. In most cases, tenants are required to pay:

• First month’s rent
• Security deposit (not to exceed 2 months' rent in Maine) Some properties may also require last month’s rent, depending on the lease terms.

You must be at least 18 years old (the legal age to enter a contract in Maine) to apply for a rental property and sign a lease agreement.

Yes. Security deposits in Maine are refundable, minus any deductions for damages, unpaid rent, or cleaning costs. By law, landlords must return the deposit within 30 days of lease termination for units with written leases.

A cosigner or guarantor may be required if an applicant doesn’t meet the income, credit, or rental history criteria. Cosigners must meet financial qualifications and agree to assume lease responsibilities if the primary tenant fails to pay.

You can apply online or in person. A complete application includes:

• Application form
• Government-issued ID
• Proof of income (typically 2.5–3x monthly rent)
• Application fee

Once submitted, we’ll conduct background, credit, and rental history checks.

Rent is typically paid through our online tenant portal, with options for ACH bank transfers, credit/debit cards, or check/money order (if permitted). Rent is due on the first of each month, and late fees may apply after a grace period (usually 15 days in Maine)

Always check your lease first. Many properties require:

• Pet approval by management
• Pet deposit or monthly pet rent Certain breeds or sizes may be restricted. Unauthorized pets can result in lease violations or fines.

All tenants on a lease are jointly responsible until the lease ends. If one tenant wishes to leave, they must notify management. The remaining tenant must requalify on their own or propose a new tenant, subject to management approval.

Landlords are responsible for keeping units safe, sanitary, and habitable under Maine law. Tenants should report issues promptly via the tenant portal. However, tenants may be charged for damages caused by neglect, misuse, or unauthorized repairs.

In Maine, landlords must give 24 hours’ notice before entering your unit, unless it’s an emergency. Entry must be at a reasonable time, typically during normal daytime hours. Emergencies (like burst pipes or fire) are an exception.

If you break your lease, you may be responsible for rent until the unit is re-rented, plus advertising or re-rental costs. However, Maine law requires landlords to make a reasonable effort to re-rent the unit to reduce your liability.

Maine does not have statewide rent control. However, landlords must provide at least 45 days’ written notice before increasing rent. If your lease is fixed-term, rent cannot increase until the lease expires unless otherwise specified.

Under certain conditions, yes. Maine law allows tenants to withhold rent if the landlord fails to fix serious health or safety issues after written notice and a reasonable time to repair. It’s best to consult legal aid before doing this to avoid lease violations.

Normal wear includes minor scuffs on walls, worn carpet, or loose handles. Deductions from the security deposit may not be made for these. Damage (e.g., broken windows, large holes, pet stains) can legally reduce your refund.

Maine law doesn’t define a guest-to-tenant timeline, but many leases limit guests to 14 consecutive days or 30 total days per year. Staying beyond this or receiving mail at the address could require that guest to submit an application.

Yes. In Maine, landlords of pre-1978 buildings must comply with lead paint disclosure laws. If lead hazards are found, they must be addressed. Radon testing is required every 10 years, and tenants must be notified of test results.

While Maine law doesn’t require renter’s insurance, many landlords do as a lease condition. Renter’s insurance protects your personal belongings and liability in case of fire, water damage, or other incidents.

If ownership or management changes, your lease remains valid. The new manager must honor the original terms. You’ll be notified of any updates to where and how to pay rent or request maintenance.

Evictions in winter follow the same legal process as any time of year. However, Maine law allows a judge to delay an eviction up to 7 days if a tenant can show extreme hardship—especially during the cold months.