AUGUSTA - Rep. Chris Kessler, D-South Portland, presented a measure last week before the Legislature's Judiciary Committee aimed at protecting Maine renters by limiting the fees that are frequently imposed on tenants upon signing a lease.
LD 1490 would ease the financial burden on renters by preventing a landlord, a landlord's agent or a real estate broker from requiring fees beyond the first month's rent, a security deposit and the costs of purchasing and installing a new lock and key. Current law limits the amount of a security deposit to no more than two months' rent.
"All of the upfront fees that come with renting an apartment make housing even more unaffordable for too many Mainers," said Kessler. "These fees create unnecessary barriers for prospective tenants in a market that's already experiencing skyrocketing prices. This legislation will strengthen protections for renters and help alleviate one of the challenges to finding an affordable apartment in our state."
The Judiciary Committee will hold a work session on the bill in the coming days.
Kessler, a member of the Energy, Utilities and Technology Committee, is serving his third term in the Maine House and represents part of Cape Elizabeth and part of South Portland.
Contact:
Brian Lee [Kessler], c. 305-965-2744