Rent Control in South Portland, Maine

Last updated: 2026-01-28

A comprehensive guide to South Portland's rent control ordinance, including the 5% cap and Rent Board process.

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Key Takeaways

  • Coverage: Buildings built before April 1, 1984
  • Rent Cap: 100% of CPI or 5%, whichever is lower
  • Notice Required: 45 days written notice required (Maine state law)
  • Rent Board: South Portland Rent Board hears disputes and petitions

Overview of South Portland Rent Control

The City of South Portland, Maine has a rent control ordinance that limits how much landlords can raise rents each year. The ordinance was passed in 2021 in response to rising housing costs.

The ordinance applies to most residential rental units constructed prior to April 1, 1984. The rent cap is 100% of CPI or 5%, whichever is lower.

Who Is Covered?

South Portland's rent control ordinance applies to buildings built before April 1, 1984. Exemptions include:

  • Buildings constructed after April 1, 1984
  • Small owner-occupied buildings – Owner-occupied with no more than 5 units
  • Units regulated by other government entities – Federally subsidized housing
  • Temporarily exempt units – Landlords can petition for exemption if costs exceed the cap

Rent Increase Limits

The rent cap is 100% of CPI or 5%, whichever is lower:

  • If CPI is 3.8%, landlords can raise rent by up to 3.8%
  • If CPI is 6%, landlords can only raise rent by 5% (the cap)

This dual cap provides additional protection even during high inflation.

The South Portland Rent Board

South Portland has a Rent Board that administers the rent control ordinance and hears disputes. The Rent Board can:

  • Determine the reasonableness of rent increases
  • Ensure compliance with rent control policies
  • Hear petitions from landlords seeking exemptions
  • Resolve disputes between landlords and tenants

Maine State Law Protections

In addition to South Portland's local ordinance, Maine state law provides:

  • 45 days' notice required before any rent increase
  • Rent can only be raised once every 12 months
  • Just cause eviction – landlords must have valid legal reasons to evict

Resources

Important: This article is a high-level overview and does not constitute legal advice. For specific questions, contact the appropriate city agency.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the rent cap in South Portland?

South Portland caps annual rent increases at 100% of CPI or 5%, whichever is lower. This provides a hard cap even during high inflation.

Which buildings are covered in South Portland?

Buildings constructed before April 1, 1984 are covered. Buildings built after this date are exempt.

What does the South Portland Rent Board do?

The Rent Board administers the ordinance, determines rent increase reasonableness, hears exemption petitions, and resolves landlord-tenant disputes.

Can I challenge a rent increase?

Yes, you can file a complaint with the South Portland Rent Board if you believe your landlord has violated the rent control ordinance.

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