5 Massachusetts Landlord Laws Every Rental Owner Must Know in 2026
Massachusetts landlord-tenant law is among the most tenant-protective in the country. Here are five laws every Massachusetts rental owner needs to understand.
1. Security Deposit Rules
You can only collect first month, last month, security deposit (one month), and lock/key cost. The deposit must be held in a separate interest-bearing account. You must provide a receipt within 30 days and return it with an itemized statement within 30 days of move-out. Violations can result in triple damages.
2. Lead Paint Disclosure
Properties built before 1978 require lead paint disclosure. If a child under 6 will live in the unit, you may be required to delead the property.
3. Habitability Standards
Units must be heated to at least 68 degrees during the day (Sept 15 – June 15), have working plumbing, adequate weatherproofing, and structural integrity. Tenants can withhold rent if standards are not met.
4. Eviction Process
You cannot change locks or shut off utilities. The process requires written notice, court filing, hearing, and court-ordered execution. It typically takes 6-12 weeks.
5. Retaliation Protection
Landlords cannot retaliate against tenants who report code violations or exercise legal rights within 6 months of protected activity.
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