Knowledge of the relevant laws in Massachusetts can help landlords and tenants with various legal issues without needing a lawyer. This article provides an introduction to the main landlord-tenant laws in the state.
Required Landlord Disclosures in Massachusetts
In Massachusetts, landlords must provide certain details to their tenants (typically found in the rental agreement). This can include an inventory of items taken before the tenant moves in (if a security deposit has been collected) and the name of any third party that has the authority to act on behalf of the landlord. Refer to the Massachusetts Required Landlord Disclosures for a comprehensive list of information that must be disclosed.
Massachusetts Security Deposit Limit and Return
In Massachusetts, landlords cannot charge more than one month’s rent for a security deposit. They must return the deposit within 30 days after the tenant has moved out. There are also additional regulations in place regarding security deposits.
Small Claims Lawsuits in Massachusetts
Tenants who want to reclaim their security deposit, up to $7,000, can take their landlord to Small Claims Court. If damage to the property was caused by a car, there is no limit to the amount that can be recovered. Those filing a lawsuit should refer to Filing a Security Deposit Lawsuit in Massachusetts Small Claims Court for advice and Massachusetts Landlord’s Guide to Security Deposit Disputes in Small Claims Court for guidance for landlords.
Massachusetts Late Fees and Other Rent Rules
State law sets out rules for landlords and tenants regarding rent payments and late fees. Landlords must give tenants at least 30 days’ notice before raising the rent, and tenants must pay rent or move out within 14 days of receiving a notice from their landlord, or else the landlord can pursue eviction. More information about these rent-related regulations can be found on the Massachusetts website.
Tenant Rights to Withhold Rent in Massachusetts
Tenants in Massachusetts have the right not to pay rent or to use their own money to pay for repairs in certain situations if their landlord fails to do so. This is known as repair and deduct and can be done if the landlord has not taken care of important repairs like a broken heater. Detailed information on this right can be found in Massachusetts Tenant Rights to Withhold Rent or Repair and Deduct.
Termination and Eviction Rules in Massachusetts
In Massachusetts, if a tenant does not have a lease and has received two notices to pay rent or leave within 12 months, the landlord can give them an unconditional quit notice which provides the tenant with 14 days to move out before the landlord can file for eviction. The specific laws regarding this type of termination and termination due to violating the lease can be found in the State Laws.
Conclusion
Both landlords and tenants must know their rights and responsibilities under Massachusetts landlord-tenant laws. Landlords must meet certain legal requirements when renting a property, and tenants have rights that must be respected. These laws can help prevent misunderstandings, disagreements, and disputes between landlords and tenants. Both parties must familiarize themselves with the applicable laws and regulations to ensure their rights are respected and protected.
MacLean Law Firm LLC is your dependable legal counsel in Southeastern Massachusetts and the greater Boston Area. We have provided professional legal services for 30 years and counting, working to protect you and your loved ones. If you need legal assistance with landlord law in East Bridgewater, we can help. Get in touch with us today and let’s talk.
