Laws & Regulations

Owning property involves more than maintenance—it requires compliance with Massachusetts laws that protect both landlords and tenants.
At Emerie Management, we prioritize clarity and professionalism. Below is an updated overview of key legal responsibilities for property owners in Massachusetts, along with links to comprehensive resources for further information.

1. Massachusetts Fair Housing Laws

Massachusetts law prohibits housing discrimination based on:

  • Race

  • Color

  • National Origin

  • Religion

  • Sex

  • Familial Status (e.g., children)

  • Disability

  • Source of Income (e.g., Section 8 vouchers)

  • Sexual Orientation

  • Gender Identity

  • Age

  • Marital Status

  • Veteran or Active Military Status

These protections apply to all aspects of housing, including renting, selling, and advertising.

📎 Overview of Fair Housing Law – Mass.gov

2. Landlord and Tenant Responsibilities

Landlord Responsibilities:

  • Provide safe and habitable housing that complies with the Massachusetts Sanitary Code.

  • Ensure all major systems and appliances function properly.

  • Clear snow and ice as legally required.

  • Return security deposits (with interest) within 30 days after tenancy ends.

Tenant Responsibilities:

  • Pay rent on time and honor lease terms.

  • Maintain the unit in good condition, excluding normal wear and tear.

  • Promptly report issues or violations that impact habitability.​

Payments at Lease Signing:

Landlords may request:

  • First month's rent

  • Last month's rent

  • Security deposit (not exceeding one month's rent)

  • Lock and key fee (if applicable)

Security Deposits:

  • Must be held in a separate, interest-bearing account in a Massachusetts bank.

  • Landlords must provide a receipt within 30 days, detailing the bank's name, location, account number, and amount deposited.

  • A "Statement of Condition" must be provided within 10 days of move-in.

  • Upon move-out, the deposit (plus interest) must be returned within 30 days, minus any lawful deductions with documentation.

📎 Massachusetts Law About Tenants' Security Deposits – Mass.gov

3. Eviction Process

  • Landlords must provide a written "Notice to Quit" before initiating eviction proceedings.

  • Notice periods vary:

    • 14-day notice for non-payment of rent.

    • 30-day notice for lease violations or termination of tenancy-at-will.

  • Evictions must proceed through the court system; self-help evictions (e.g., changing locks) are illegal.

📎 Eviction for Landlords – Mass.gov

4. Comprehensive Guide

For a detailed overview of landlord-tenant laws in Massachusetts, including leases, repairs, and evictions:

📎 Massachusetts Law About Landlord and Tenant – Mass.gov

Note: This information is provided for general guidance and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal concerns, consult a qualified attorney.