[ME] How do I evict a tenant who hasn't paid rent?
Your primary options in Maine are to serve proper notice and, if necessary, start eviction proceedings.
- Typically you begin with a written "pay or quit" (pay rent or vacate) notice — often a 7-day notice — giving the tenant time to pay the past due rent (14 M.R.S. §6002).
- Since your lease specifies rent due on the 1st and a 5% late penalty, you may be able to include that penalty in the amount demanded, but you must ensure the notice and penalty comply with Maine law and your lease terms.
- If the tenant fails to pay or vacate after the notice period, you can file for eviction in court (14 M.R.S. §6005). The court process is strict about following statutory steps, so small procedural mistakes can delay you.
- Because of that, it’s a good idea to verify the exact notice language and timing with a local attorney who knows Maine landlord-tenant law.
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So what do I do if a tenant doesn't pay rent in Maine?
I understand the frustration of dealing with a tenant who doesn't pay. Have you served any notices to the tenant regarding the unpaid rent?
No.
Are there any specific terms regarding rent payment in the lease agreement with the tenant?
He must pay rent on the 1st day of the month or else he has to pay a 5% penalty.
Is there anything else the lawyer should know before I connect you?
Yes.
Hello, my name is Blake and I am a licensed attorney with AskaLawyer — I’ll help you with this. First, how long ago did this happen and where is the property located?
Happened two months ago — he has been not paying.
Understood. How would you like to see this situation resolved?
Not sure. What are my options?
Your primary options in Maine are to serve proper notice and, if necessary, start eviction proceedings.
- Typically you begin with a written "pay or quit" (pay rent or vacate) notice — often a 7-day notice — giving the tenant time to pay the past due rent (14 M.R.S. §6002).
- Since your lease specifies rent due on the 1st and a 5% late penalty, you may be able to include that penalty in the amount demanded, but you must ensure the notice and penalty comply with Maine law and your lease terms.
- If the tenant fails to pay or vacate after the notice period, you can file for eviction in court (14 M.R.S. §6005). The court process is strict about following statutory steps, so small procedural mistakes can delay you.
- Because of that, it’s a good idea to verify the exact notice language and timing with a local attorney who knows Maine landlord-tenant law.
Does that answer your question?
So I give the tenant a 7-day notice to pay all back rent and penalties, and if they don't pay I can essentially start the eviction process?
Yes — generally that is the correct process. Serve a written 7-day pay-or-quit notice demanding the outstanding rent and applicable penalties. If the tenant doesn't comply within that period, you may initiate eviction proceedings. Verify the notice requirements and procedure with a Maine attorney to make sure you follow all statutory steps.
I hope I answered your question.
