Landlord Apartment Showings During Move-Out in Massachusetts

When preparing to move out of a Massachusetts rental, you may wonder about your privacy rights as your landlord seeks new tenants. This guide explains when and how landlords may show your apartment while you pack, what notice is required, and what protections Massachusetts renters have under the law.

Your Right to Privacy When Moving Out

In Massachusetts, renters have a legal right to privacy—even as they prepare to leave a rental. The law balances these privacy rights against a landlord's right to re-rent the unit. State law sets out circumstances when a landlord can enter, but there are clear rules landlords must follow.

When Can Landlords Show the Apartment?

• Landlords typically may show the apartment to prospective renters or buyers during the final month of your lease or tenancy.
• Legally, landlords must provide advance notice and cannot enter at unreasonable times or in ways that violate your privacy.

The main Massachusetts law covering this topic is Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 186, Section 15B. It outlines entry circumstances and the conditions for lawful notice.^[1]

Required Notice and Entry Rules

• Notice: A landlord must give you reasonable notice before any non-emergency entry. Although the statute doesn't specify an exact timeframe, at least 24 hours' notice is standard practice.
• Times: Showings must occur at reasonable hours, typically during the day or early evening.
• Purpose: Entry is allowed for showings only if the lease supports it or with your permission.

Even during showings, you do not have to move your packed boxes or leave your home unless you choose to do so, though being accommodating can help the process run smoothly.

What Tenants Should Know About Showings

• Your landlord cannot show the property without complying with notice requirements.
• You are entitled to be present for any showing if you wish.
• If your landlord repeatedly enters without proper notice, you may have grounds for a complaint.

Relevant Official Forms and Where to Get Help

• Consumer Complaint Form (No number):
  Use this if your landlord is repeatedly violating your privacy by entering without proper notice or cause. Access the form and submit it through the Massachusetts Attorney General's official website.
  Example: If your landlord brings people to show your apartment several times without notice, you may file this form to begin a formal complaint.

For disputes over entry or privacy that cannot be resolved informally, tenants can bring cases before the official tribunal for rental housing matters in Massachusetts: the Massachusetts Housing Court.^[3]

What to Do If Your Rights Are Violated

If your landlord tries to show the apartment without following the rules, document each incident. Communicate your concerns in writing and, if the problem continues, seek help from state agencies or the Housing Court.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord show my apartment whenever they want?
   No, your landlord must give you reasonable notice and show the apartment only at reasonable times, even if you're moving out.
2. How much notice does a landlord need to give before a showing?
   Massachusetts law does not specify an exact time, but 24 hours' notice is generally accepted as reasonable.
3. What can I do if my landlord enters without notice?
   Keep a written record, notify your landlord of your rights, and consider filing a complaint with the Massachusetts Attorney General if the problem continues.
4. Do I have to leave my apartment during showings?
   No, you have no obligation to leave, though some renters choose to do so. It is your choice.
5. Where do I take a dispute about illegal entry?
   You can bring unresolved disputes to the Massachusetts Housing Court.

Key Takeaways for Massachusetts Renters

• Your landlord must give reasonable notice and show your apartment only at reasonable times.
• You may be present during showings, and your privacy is still protected during move-out.
• For violations, keep records and reach out to state resources or Housing Court.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Massachusetts Housing Court – For legal disputes about entry and tenancy.
• Massachusetts Attorney General's Consumer Complaints – For reporting landlord violations.
• Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation – General information on tenant rights.

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1. Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 186, Section 15B – Security deposits and landlord entry
2. Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation – Renter Rights
3. Massachusetts Housing Court – Residential Disputes

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