Maine § 1376. - Late fees

Full text of Maine Maine Revised Statutes § 1376. — Late fees, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 1376.. Late fees

1.  Imposition of late fee.  An operator may impose a reasonable late fee in accordance with this section for each service period that an occupant does not pay rent when due, as long as the due date for the rental payment is not earlier than the day before the first day of the service period to which the rental payment applies. A late fee may not be imposed if the occupant makes a rental payment in full by the 3rd day after the due date.

2.  Conditions in writing.  An operator may not impose a late fee unless the amount of that fee and the conditions for imposing that fee are stated in 12-point type in a written rental agreement or an addendum to that agreement.

3.  Permissible late fees.  A late fee of $20 for each late rental payment or 20% of the amount of each rental payment, whichever is greater, is reasonable and does not constitute a penalty.

4.  Recovery of reasonable expenses.  An operator may recover from the occupant any reasonable expense incurred in rent collection or lien enforcement in addition to the late fee permitted by subsection 1.

Frequently Asked Questions About Maine § 1376.

What does Maine Revised Statutes § 1376. cover?

Section 1376. ("Late fees") is part of the Maine Revised Statutes, the codified statutory law of Maine. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Maine § 1376.?

A common citation format is "Maine Revised Statutes § 1376." (Maine). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Maine law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Maine official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Maine attorney.

How does Maine § 1376. apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Maine can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Maine.