Maine: rules and deadlines at a glance

Every 9 topic we track for Maine on one page. Open a topic for the details, the law it comes from and how Maine compares.

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Claim deadlines · Small claims limits · Property division · Dog bite rules · Shared fault rules · Security deposit rules · Eviction notice rules · Property tax rates

General information only, not legal, insurance or financial advice. Not affiliated with any government agency. Exceptions can apply; open a topic for the details.

Filing deadlines (statute of limitations)

Property damage	6 years

Claim deadlines Single detailed source

Acknowledge	No fixed number of days; must act with reasonable promptness
Accept or deny	No fixed number of days
Pay	30 days after proof of loss and an agreed amount

Small claims limits Single detailed source

Dollar limit	$10,000 (since Jan. 1, 2026; was $6,000)
Filing fee	$70
Lawyers	Allowed

Property division

System	Equitable distribution
Opt-in community property	No

Dog bite rules Single detailed source

Rule	Strict liability
Details	Strict liability

Shared fault rules

Rule	Modified comparative negligence (50% bar)
When you are barred	Barred if you are 50% or more at fault

Security deposit rules Single detailed source

Maximum deposit	2 months' rent
Return deadline	30 days (21 days for tenancy at will)

Eviction notice rules Single detailed source

Notice before filing	7 days to pay

Property tax rates

Effective rate	0.98%
On a $300,000 home	$2,940 a year