Returning Security Deposit Rules
Summary
In Maine, landlords must return security deposits within 30 days or as specified in the lease. Tenants can sue if not returned. If you break a lease early, you may be responsible for rent until the unit is re-rented or the lease ends. Contact Maine District Court for more details.Full Conversation
Returning of security deposit
What state are you in, ****? Different states have different laws regarding the return of security deposits.
Maine
In Maine:
- Landlords must return the security deposit within 30 days or within the time specified in the lease.
- If not, tenants can sue for the amount owed.
For more details, contact Maine District Court: (*) *-*.
Yes
That's great, ****. If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask.
Can they charge rent if we aren't living there?
What is the reason for not living there? Is it due to a breach of contract or any other reason?
we ended the lease early after purchasing a house
In Maine, landlords can charge rent until the unit is re-rented if tenants break the lease early. It's called "duty to mitigate damages".
So I'm responsible for rent because they can't fill the space?
Yes, in Maine, if the landlord can't re-rent the unit, you may be responsible for rent until the lease ends or the unit is rented.