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The Maine Security Deposit
is money you give to your landlord when you move in. Your landlord can use
it to cover any unpaid rent or damages. You may not use your security
deposit to cover your last month's rent unless your landlord agrees.
All agreements should be in writing.
Maximum Deposit: A Maine Security deposit is
limited to a maximum of two month's rent.
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Interest: Unless agreed to, a Maine Landlord does not have to
pay interest on the deposit. Different rules may apply
for subsidized housing.
Your landlord cannot keep your security deposit for "normal wear
and tear." Examples of "normal wear and tear" could be:
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This means that your landlord cannot charge you for routine upkeep,
such as periodic cleaning and painting.
The Maine landlord can deduct the cost of fixing damages which are
beyond "normal wear and
tear." Examples of these damages could
be:
If your apartment is damaged by a storm, a fire, or a vandal, tell your
landlord right away. He cannot charge you for the repairs if you or your
guests did not cause the damage. It is also a good idea to make a police
report.
RETURN OF SECURITY DEPOSIT: The
landlord must either return all of your security deposit or send you a
letter telling you why he is not giving some or all of it back. He must
send this letter to your "last known address." Give your
landlord your new address, or make sure your mail is being forwarded so
that you will get the letter.
If you are a tenant at will (no
written lease), your landlord must give back the deposit or send you the
letter within 21 days after you move out and return the key. If
you have a lease, check to see what it says. If there is nothing in
the lease about this, or if the lease gives more than 30 days, then your
landlord has 30 days to return the deposit. This is the legal limit.
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