Maine Deposit Itemization Law at a Glance
Governing Statute
Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 14, §6033 — Security Deposits
Itemization Requirement
Your landlord must provide an itemized statement of deductions within 30 calendar days after termination of tenancy.
Allowable Deductions
Unpaid rent, damage to premises beyond normal wear and tear. Landlord cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
Normal Wear & Tear
Deterioration resulting from ordinary use of the premises.
Penalty for Wrongful Withholding
If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit or fails to provide proper itemization, you may be entitled to double the amount wrongfully withheld under Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 14, §6033.
Key Facts
- Maximum deposit: 2 months rent
- Itemization required: Within 30 calendar days
- Small claims limit: $6,000
Additional Protections
- Landlord must return deposit within 30 days (or 21 days if tenancy at will)
- Double damages for wrongful withholding
What Your Maine Dispute Letter Includes
Every letter is built from Maine's actual statute — not a generic template.
Itemization Requirements
Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 14, §6033 cited by section number. Your landlord sees you know the specific rules they must follow.
Disputed Deductions
Each disputed charge identified with your specific reasons, tied to Maine law.
Wear & Tear Standard
Deterioration resulting from ordinary use of the premises...
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Maine Deposit Itemization FAQ
What are the security deposit itemization requirements in Maine?
Under Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 14, §6033, your landlord is required to provide an itemized statement of deductions within 30 calendar days after termination of tenancy. The itemization must list each deduction, the amount, and the reason.
What deductions can my Maine landlord legally take from my deposit?
In Maine, allowable deductions are limited to: Unpaid rent, damage to premises beyond normal wear and tear. Your landlord cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
What counts as normal wear and tear in Maine?
In Maine: Deterioration resulting from ordinary use of the premises. Examples include minor scuffs on walls, worn carpet from foot traffic, faded paint, and small nail holes.
What happens if my Maine landlord wrongfully withholds my deposit?
If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit or fails to provide proper itemization, you may be entitled to double the amount wrongfully withheld under Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 14, §6033. You can pursue this in small claims court.
Can I sue my landlord in small claims court in Maine?
Yes. Maine small claims court handles cases up to $6,000. Security deposit disputes are one of the most common small claims cases.
Do I need a lawyer to dispute deposit deductions in Maine?
No. A dispute letter is a formal written challenge, not a lawsuit. You can send one yourself. Our tool generates a Maine-specific dispute letter citing Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 14, §6033 and your state's itemization requirements so your landlord knows you understand your rights.
Deposit Itemization Dispute Letters by State
Select your state to see your specific rights and generate your letter.