Massachusetts Landlord Move-In Disclosure Requirements

Before you move into a rental home in Massachusetts, your landlord is required by law to share specific information—called disclosures—to protect both you and your future home. Knowing what these disclosures are can help you avoid unpleasant surprises, ensure your security deposit is handled correctly, and help you make informed decisions. This article guides Massachusetts renters through all required move-in disclosures, official forms, and what to do if you haven’t received them.

What Disclosures Must a Massachusetts Landlord Provide Before Move-In?

Massachusetts law sets out several important requirements for what a landlord must tell you or provide in writing before you take possession of a rental property. These are designed to promote transparency and set clear expectations for both parties.

• Security Deposit Statement: If your landlord collects a security deposit, they must provide a written receipt and disclose where your deposit is held.
• Statement of Condition: If a security deposit is collected, this detailed document lists the condition of your rental unit upon move-in. You can dispute or add to it within 15 days.
• Names of Owners and Agents: You must be informed in writing of the property owner’s name, address, and the person responsible for repairs or services.
• Lead Paint Disclosure: For rented homes built before 1978, specific lead paint information must be disclosed to all tenants, especially those with children under 6.
• Utilities and Metering: If utilities are separately metered, or if you will be responsible for certain bills, you should receive written notice outlining these responsibilities.

Receiving these disclosures protects your security deposit and helps you understand your rights concerning repairs, health hazards, and more.

Official Forms: What to Expect and How to Use Them

Security Deposit Receipt

• Form Name: Security Deposit Receipt (no official form number)
• How It’s Used: After you pay your deposit, your landlord must immediately issue a written receipt. This receipt includes the property address, amount, landlord’s name, and where the money is being held (bank name and account number).
• Renter Example: You pay $1,500 as a security deposit. The landlord gives you a form listing the deposit details and bank info, so you know exactly where your money is.
• Find a sample receipt and detailed rules at the Massachusetts Security Deposit law page.

Statement of Condition

• Form Name: Statement of Condition (no official number)
• How It’s Used: If collecting a security deposit, your landlord must give you a written Statement of Condition within 10 days of move-in. You're allowed to review, note any disagreements, and return it within 15 days from receiving it or moving in (whichever is later).
• Renter Example: The landlord’s form says the carpet is clean, but you notice a stain. You note this on the Statement and return it, protecting your deposit later.
• See a sample and learn more at the official Security Deposit resource.

Lead Paint Notification Form

• Form Name: Tenant Lead Law Notification (Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program form)
• How It’s Used: Given to all tenants renting homes built before 1978 and especially to families with children under 6. Discloses risks and confirms you’ve been notified.
• Renter Example: If you’re moving into an older building, the landlord must give you and sign this form so you have information about potential lead paint hazards.
• You can download the required form at the Massachusetts Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program site.

Notice of Owner and Agent

• Form Name: Notice of Owner/Agent Information (no form number)
• How It’s Used: Provided to you in writing with the owner’s/agent’s legal name and address, and the local person responsible for repairs.
• Renter Example: If you need a repair, this notice makes clear who to contact without confusion.
• Full details at Massachusetts Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.

What If My Landlord Hasn’t Provided the Required Disclosures?

If you have not received any of these disclosures, you have several options:

• Politely request them in writing, as sometimes this resolves the oversight quickly.
• If you paid a security deposit and did not get a Statement of Condition or proper receipts, you may be entitled to legal remedies or a full return of your deposit.
• For unresolved issues, you can contact the Massachusetts Housing Court for advice, mediation, or legal proceedings.

For complaints relating to lead paint disclosures, contact the Massachusetts Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program.

Relevant Legislation and Tribunal

• All disclosures are required under Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 186, Section 15B (Security Deposits) and Chapter 111, Section 197 (Lead Paint).
• Official housing disputes are resolved by the Massachusetts Housing Court.

FAQ

1. What if my landlord refuses to give me a Statement of Condition?
   Your landlord must provide a Statement of Condition if they take a security deposit. If you don’t receive one, you can request it in writing. Failing to do so may give you rights to recover your full deposit.
2. Do disclosures have to be in English?
   Massachusetts law does not require translations, but all required notices must be in writing. If you need help understanding them, contact a local tenant resource or legal aide.
3. Is my landlord allowed to keep my full security deposit?
   No — landlords must follow specific rules about deductions and disclosures. If procedures aren’t followed, you can challenge deductions in the Massachusetts Housing Court.
4. Are there penalties for landlords who don’t follow disclosure laws?
   Yes. Landlords may be required to return your security deposit in full, pay additional damages, or be barred from certain deductions.
5. Where can I find official state forms or complaint procedures?
   You can download official forms and complaint details from the Massachusetts Landlord and Tenant resource page.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Massachusetts Renters

• Massachusetts law requires landlords to provide written security deposit receipts, Statements of Condition, lead paint disclosures, and owner/agent information before move-in.
• These requirements help protect your rights—especially concerning your deposit and health-related issues like lead paint.
• If you don’t get these documents, you have the right to request them or seek help through official state resources.

Understanding and keeping your move-in disclosures can prevent disputes and ensure a smoother rental experience.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Massachusetts Housing Court: Handles tenancy complaints and disputes
• Massachusetts Landlord and Tenant Rights: Official resources and printable forms
• Tenants’ Rights and Responsibilities: Details your legal rights and common rental issues
• Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program: For lead paint disclosures and help

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1. Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 186, Section 15B – Security Deposits
2. Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 111, Section 197 – Lead Paint
3. Official Security Deposit Guidance, Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities
4. Massachusetts Housing Court

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