Portland, ME Rental Property Rules: Repairs & Habitability (2026)

Sec. 6-107 establishes that these are minimum standards only, applying to existing and newly built or converted dwellings alike, and do not override a stricter requirement elsewhere in the Code. Sec. 6-108 then bars anyone from occupying, or allowing another to occupy, any dwelling, dwelling unit, rooming house, or rooming unit that fails specific structural benchmarks: foundations, basements, exterior walls, and roofs must be "substantially weathertight, watertight, and vermin proof," structurally sound, and able to bear normal loads; every floor, wall, ceiling, and door must be structurally sound and substantially vermin proof; and every exterior window, door, and skylight must be weathertight and kept in sound working condition, with storm sash and screens required for heat retention and ventilation.

Article V pairs these structural rules with Sec. 6-120, which lets the building authority condemn and post against occupancy any dwelling that is damaged, decayed, unsanitary, vermin-infested, or lacking adequate plumbing, ventilation, lighting, or heating, or that is overcrowded to the point of being a hazard. Once posted, Sec. 6-122 bars reoccupying the property until it is brought up to standard, and Sec. 6-124 requires the property be secured if not improved. Owners have an appeal right under Sec. 6-127. These standards apply across long-term and short-term rentals alike and are enforced by the health or building authority under the Sec. 6-117 inspection power.