Maine Eviction Notice for Unpaid Rent

What Maine law says

• 14 M.R.S. 6002(1)(C): the tenant is 7 days or more in arrears in rent; the tenancy may end upon 7 days' written notice.
• 6002(2)(A)(1): the notice must state the amount of rent that is 7 days or more in arrears as of the notice date.
• 6002: the landlord may make at least 3 good faith efforts to serve in-hand, then mail by first class mail and leave the notice at the tenant's last and usual place of abode.
• The Maine court guide says the notice must also tell the tenant they can contest the eviction in court, and that paying before it expires voids it.

Steps for a landlord

• Confirm rent is at least 7 days past due.
• Write a 7-day notice to quit stating the exact amount in arrears.
• Try in-hand delivery at least three times in good faith, then mail and leave it at the unit.
• Do not file in court until the 7 days have run and rent remains unpaid.

What to put in the notice

• The names of the tenants and the address of the rental
• The amount of rent owed and the rental period it covers
• The number of days the tenant has to pay or move out, and the date that period ends
• The date, how the notice was delivered, and who delivered it
• Your name and contact details, with your signature

Things to watch

• The pages we read do not explain how the 7 days are counted. Check 14 M.R.S. 6002 or a local attorney.
• The court guide says to follow different lease terms if any; check the lease and the statute for exact notice wording.
• Cities and counties can add their own rules, including rent control and extra notice requirements. Check your local rules too.

About this page

We checked this page against the official sources listed below in November 2026. Where an official page did not say something, we say so. Laws change and courts read them differently, so confirm the current rule with the statute, the court or a local attorney before you act. This is general information, not legal advice.