Massachusetts Lease Disclosure Requirements: What Renters Must Know

If you're renting a home or apartment in Massachusetts, understanding what information your landlord must provide is important for your legal protection. Massachusetts law sets clear rules about required disclosures in residential leases. Knowing these disclosures can help you advocate for yourself and avoid future disputes with your landlord.

What Is a Lease Disclosure?

A lease disclosure is official information your landlord must give you—usually in writing—when you sign a rental agreement. These disclosures are designed to promote safety, health, and clear understanding between landlords and renters.

Mandatory Lease Disclosures in Massachusetts

Massachusetts landlords must provide specific information and documents to renters at the start of tenancy. Review each disclosure below, including how and when you should receive them.

1. Statement of Condition (Form: Statement of Condition)

• What it is: A written description of the current condition of the rental property.
• When to receive: Within 10 days after receiving your security deposit.
• Renter action: Review, make your own notes on damage, and return a signed copy to the landlord within 15 days.
• Official resource and form: Statement of Condition form from Mass.gov

The Statement of Condition helps avoid disputes at move-out about damage and what the tenant is responsible for.

2. Security Deposit Rules Disclosure

• Landlords must provide a written receipt for any security deposit, stating where (bank name and address) and under what account number it's held.
• This receipt is often given with the Statement of Condition.
• See the security deposit rules in the Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 186, Section 15B.

3. Lead Paint Disclosure (Form: Tenant Lead Law Notification)

• What it is: Landlords must inform you if the property was built before 1978 and provide you with the "Tenant Lead Law Notification" form.
• Official form: Tenant Lead Law Notification and Certification
• Why it matters: Lead paint is a significant health hazard, especially for children and pregnant women.
• For more information, see the Lead Law in Massachusetts guide.

4. Fire Insurance Disclosure

• Upon written request from the renter, the landlord must provide details about the fire insurance coverage for the building within 15 days.
• Coverage details can help you decide if you need renters insurance.
• See the requirement in General Laws c. 186, Section 21.

5. Utilities and Fuel Disclosure

• If utilities (like heat, water, or electricity) are not included in the rent, or if they are shared (e.g., common meters), the lease must clearly state who pays each utility.
• This prevents confusion over bills and responsibility.
• Required under Massachusetts lease and utility disclosure rules.

6. Contact Information for the Landlord/Agent

• Landlords must provide tenants with the landlord's and any property manager's name, address, and telephone number in writing (usually as part of the rental or lease agreement).
• This ensures you know who to contact for repairs or emergencies.

Who Regulates Rental Housing in Massachusetts?

Residential tenancies and rental disputes in Massachusetts are handled primarily by the Massachusetts Housing Court. This tribunal deals with eviction proceedings, lease disputes, and other landlord–tenant matters.

State rental law is found in the Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 186, which sets out many renter protections and disclosure requirements.

Additional Renter Protections

Massachusetts renters are protected from discriminatory practices under both federal and state law. The Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD) enforces anti-discrimination laws in housing.

FAQ: Lease Disclosures for Massachusetts Renters

1. If I don't get a Statement of Condition, what should I do?
   If your landlord collected a security deposit but failed to provide this form, send a written request. You can still make and submit your own list of existing damage within 15 days.
2. Is the lead paint disclosure required for all rentals?
   No, only for housing built before 1978. If you don't receive this and your building is older, request it. Failure is a violation of state and federal law.
3. Can I withhold rent if my landlord doesn't provide required disclosures?
   No. Instead, you may report violations to local health or housing authorities or seek remedies in Housing Court.
4. What should I do if my lease is missing key contact information?
   Request it in writing. The landlord is legally required to give you their or their agent’s name, address, and phone.
5. Who do I contact for rental disputes in Massachusetts?
   The Massachusetts Housing Court handles lease and tenancy disputes statewide.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• Always review and keep copies of your lease and all disclosures.
• Massachusetts law protects renters by requiring transparency and clear disclosures from landlords.
• If you're unsure whether you received all required paperwork, reach out to an official resource for guidance.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Massachusetts Housing Court: For rental disputes, enforcement, and legal proceedings.
• Massachusetts Security Deposit Information: Official guidance on deposits, conditions, and returns.
• Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination: For discrimination complaints.
• Tenant Rights and Responsibilities in Massachusetts: Comprehensive overview for renters.

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1. See Massachusetts General Laws c. 186, §15B (Security Deposits)
2. Tenant Lead Law Notification and Certification Form
3. Massachusetts General Laws c. 186, §21 (Fire Insurance Disclosure)
4. Massachusetts Official Lease and Utility Disclosure Rules
5. Massachusetts Housing Court

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