Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Maine

I signed a winter rental lease from September 1, 2010 through the third week in June 2011. However, I work from home and my office is relocating me back to Wyoming for up to four months. I am required to pay a $600 security deposit by the end of this month and I have only paid $100 of it so far. I am wondering what I am legally supposed to pay to my landlord upon breaking the lease early. Can I get away with not paying the rest of the security deposit if my electric bill is caught up when I move out? Also, there is nothing specified on the lease about moving out early.


Asked on 10/11/10, 10:22 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Jerome Gamache Ainsworth Thelin & Raftice, P.A.

As you know, the conditions of your tenancy are governed by the terms of the lease agreement. We would need to review the complete lease agreement in order to offer you specific advice on how to handle your specific situation. However, generally tenants can be liable for unpaid rent and other costs associated with the particular tenant moving out early and thereby violating the lease agreement. Here in Maine, landlords have an obligation to mitigate their damages by trying to find a replacement tenant. But, in the meantime, until the landlord locates a tenant, the former tenant could be sued for unpaid rent and costs associated with re-rental (advertising, etc.)

Again, it is very important that you further discuss this situation with an attorney who has had the advantage of actually reviewing your specific lease agreement. Lease agreement terms can vary widely from lease to lease, so it is possible that there are other issues/angles that an attorney might need to address, given the actual terms of your individual lease.

Thanks.

www.atrlaw.pro

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Answered on 10/18/10, 5:48 am


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