Maine landlord repair timeline
How long does a landlord in Maine have to repair?
The clock most states set starts at the tenant’s written notice. Here is what the statute says, with the official source. It is general information, not legal advice.
- What it sets
- Repair and deduct for repairs under $500 or half a month’s rent, whichever is greater, 14 days after written notice
- Statute
- 14 M.R.S. 6021 and 6026
- Official source
- Maine Revised Statutes title 14, section 6026
Not an emergency service. For a fire, a gas leak or anyone in danger, call 911 or the gas utility.
What Maine law says, line by line
Each line restates the text it cites. Check the current version before you rely on it.
A landlord may not keep or allow a condition that endangers or materially impairs the tenants’ health or safety.
14 M.R.S. 6026Repair and deduct covers costs under $500 or half a month’s rent, whichever is greater, after 14 days’ written notice by certified mail, or sooner in an emergency.
14 M.R.S. 6026Electrical, oil burner and plumbing work must be done by a licensed professional.
14 M.R.S. 6026The remedy isn’t available if the tenant caused the condition, unreasonably denied the landlord access, or extreme weather prevents the repair.
14 M.R.S. 6026
Checked October 21, 2026
Turn the statute into your own response times
City rules and your leases can be stricter than the state. Write your times as the strictest of the three.
- Count from when the tenant told you, because many deadlines start at notice
- Put heat, water, power and anything dangerous at the top, day or night
- Ask for notice in writing, and reply in writing, so the record exists if anyone asks
- Record every step with a time: the first reply, the booking, the visit and the confirmation
A question managers ask about Maine
Only through a licensed professional. Section 6026 requires electrical, oil burner and plumbing work to be installed and serviced by someone licensed under Title 32, after 14 days’ certified-mail notice.
Managing in another state? Pick it hereThe same leak can have a different clock across a state line.
The clock starts at the tenant’s notice Ours answers at any hour