Tenant Resource Guide

Massachusetts renter law

Massachusetts rules for renters: deposits, rent increases, repairs, entry, leases, and eviction, with statute citations.

Tenant Rights

Your Right to Habitable Housing in MassachusettsMassachusetts rentals must meet the State Sanitary Code; tenants can withhold rent or, once inspectors certify violations, repair and deduct up to four months' rent.

Security Deposits

Your Security Deposit Rights in MassachusettsMassachusetts caps deposits at one month's rent and requires a bank receipt, yearly interest, and return within 30 days, or the landlord can owe you triple.

Rent Payments

Rent Payment Protections for Massachusetts TenantsMassachusetts bars late fees until rent is 30 days overdue, requires a receipt and yearly interest on last month's rent, and has banned rent control since 1994.

Lease Agreements

Understanding Your Lease Rights in MassachusettsMassachusetts landlords can charge only first and last month's rent, a deposit, and a lock fee at move-in, and pay utilities unless meters and your lease say otherwise.

Eviction Process

Massachusetts Eviction Protections for TenantsMassachusetts tenants get a 14-day notice to quit for unpaid rent and can often cure by paying. A pending RAFT application can pause a rent case in court.

Savings tools and property management powered by real estate.

There are no fees for opening or using Tellus. Available on iOS and Android.