New Housing Court rules will take effect in June 2023, changing how this trial court operates. Since the pandemic, Housing Court has significantly changed its court procedures and operations. Many of these changes, in my opinion, have been long overdue. more »
Landlord rights is a topic that I often get asked about, usually by landlords themselves in frustration over Massachusetts landlord-tenant laws. While tenant rights are more commonly known by those involved in landlord-tenant law, landlords certainly have rights of their more »
Being a landlord isn’t easy. Many are surprised about how many responsibilities come with this work, and the potential pitfalls that can arise when things are not done correctly. Here, I’ll discuss three landlord mistakes to avoid. Not Having a more »
Drugs in a rental apartment are a serious problem for landlords. Aside from the obvious dangers that arise anytime illegal drugs are involved, landlords can face potential liability for not addressing such matters right away. Fortunately, Massachusetts law has an more »
The Appeals Court issued an important decision this week clarifying when “pet rent” is allowed in Massachusetts. “Pet rent”, as I refer to it, is additional rent that a landlord charges a tenant for allowing a pet in a rental more »
Renting out a home for the first time can be an eye-opening experience for many new landlords. Few realize how many laws and regulations cover landlord-tenant matters in Massachusetts, and the repercussions if a landlord fails to follow the law. more »
Evicting a section 8 tenant is a process that generally follows the usual steps for a Massachusetts eviction, but with several extra requirements. Special care must be given towards following these added steps of the process. Section 8 Overview Section more »
No-fault evictions are the process used to evict tenants at will, where the landlord or tenant has the option of ending the tenancy at any time, with proper notice. Here, I’ll discuss three things to know about no-fault evictions. No-Fault more »
Rent escrow refers to the holding of rent money while a legal matter is ongoing. The questions most commonly asked about rent escrow in Massachusetts are when, and how, it is allowed. Rent Escrow Before An Eviction Case Without a more »
Cash for keys is a popular alternative to the formal eviction process in Massachusetts. As an incentive for tenants to voluntarily leave a rental property, landlords can offer tenants money to move. Often, such deals can save landlords significant time more »
