Move-Out Checklist (Maine)
A cleaner move-out record makes a deposit dispute easier to handle. The best time to protect the deposit is before the landlord controls the story.
In Maine, the record should show the lease type, tenancy end date, surrender and acceptance, condition, deposit amount, and where the landlord can send the deposit response.
Before You Move Out
Document the condition
- take photos and video before you remove everything
- take photos and video after cleaning and emptying the unit
- save any move-in inspection photos or notes
- keep repair requests and landlord responses
Confirm the deadline facts
- save the written lease, if there is one
- identify the lease deadline for deposit return
- document the tenancy termination date
- document surrender of the premises
- keep key-return, move-out, and acceptance proof
- provide a reliable address for the deposit response
On Move-Out Day
- remove belongings
- return keys or document how possession was returned
- take final photos
- save any text or email confirming move-out
- keep proof of delivery for any move-out notice
After You Move Out
Track the correct deadline.
For a written rental agreement, use the deadline stated in the lease, up to 30 days. For a tenancy at will, use the 21-day rule tied to termination or surrender and acceptance, whichever is later.
If the landlord keeps money, look for a written itemized statement. If the dispute keeps going after demand, do not skip the 7-day notice-before-suit step before asking for wrongful-retention remedies.