Scams & Consumer Issues in Maine

By CanISueForThis Editorial Team Reviewed by Editorial Team Updated March 21, 2026

Key Maine Law

Maine Revised Statutes Title 5 Section 207 (Maine Unfair Trade Practices Act)

Maine's Unfair Trade Practices Act prohibits unfair methods of competition and unfair or deceptive acts or practices in the conduct of any trade or commerce in Maine.

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Procedural Details in Maine

Maine's Unfair Trade Practices Act (5 MRSA Section 205-A et seq.) provides a private right of action under 5 MRSA Section 213. Consumers may recover actual damages, and for willful violations, up to twice actual damages plus attorney fees. The statute of limitations is six years under 14 MRSA Section 752, which is among the most generous nationally. The Maine AG may bring enforcement actions seeking injunctions, civil penalties up to $10,000 per violation, and restitution. Maine requires home improvement contractors to register with the Maine Home Construction Contracts Act (10 MRSA Chapter 203-A) for any residential construction, improvement, repair, or remodeling. Contractors must provide written contracts for work over $3,000 and are subject to a three-day cancellation right for door-to-door solicited work.

Maine Agencies & Resources

Maine Attorney General — Consumer Protection Division

Enforces Maine's Unfair Trade Practices Act and accepts consumer fraud complaints.

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Maine Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation

Licenses electricians, plumbers, and other specialty contractors in Maine.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have to file a consumer fraud claim in Maine?

Six years under 14 MRSA Section 752. Maine's six-year period is among the longest in the country for consumer fraud claims.

What damages are available under Maine's consumer protection law?

Actual damages, and for willful violations, up to twice actual damages plus attorney fees. The AG may also seek civil penalties up to $10,000 per violation.

Does Maine require contractor registration?

Maine requires home improvement contractors to register under the Home Construction Contracts Act (10 MRSA Chapter 203-A). Written contracts are required for work over $3,000. Consumers have a three-day cancellation right for solicited door-to-door contracts.

How do I report a consumer scam in Maine?

File a complaint with the Maine Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division at maine.gov/ag/consumer. The AG accepts online complaints and investigates patterns of deceptive trade practices.

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