Massachusetts Mobile Home Park Rent Increase Limits Explained

Rent increases are a top concern for many residents of mobile home parks in Massachusetts. Staying informed about your rights can help reduce uncertainty and ensure fair treatment. Massachusetts law provides specific protections for mobile home park tenants, including requirements for notice and, in some cases, limits evaluated by local rent control boards. This guide explains how rent increases work for mobile home parks in Massachusetts, what steps renters can take, and where to turn for reliable help.

Understanding Rent Increase Rules for Mobile Home Parks in Massachusetts

Unlike standard apartment rentals, mobile home park rent increases in Massachusetts may be subject to local rent control ordinances. State law, found in Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 140, Section 32L, gives towns and cities the option to create rent control boards for mobile home parks^[1]. Where no local ordinance exists, landlords must still follow the statewide requirements for notice and process.

Key Rent Increase Guidelines

• Advance Written Notice: Landlords must provide at least 30 days’ written notice before any rent increase can take effect. Some towns require even longer notice if local ordinances apply.
• Local Rent Control: In towns with a rent control board (such as Taunton, Amesbury, or Middleborough), park owners must apply to the board for approval before raising rents above allowed amounts. Residents may attend hearings to voice concerns or oppose increases.
• Annual Increases: Most rent control boards allow for annual increases tied to inflation or local cost indexes. Excessive or sudden jumps can be challenged by residents.
• No Statewide Cap: If your town does not offer rent control, there is no set cap on rent hikes, but the notice rules still apply.

Required Forms and Practical Examples

• Notice of Rent Increase
  
  • Form Name: "Notice of Rent Increase" (no specific statewide form number for mobile home parks)
  • Use: Landlords must provide this form at least 30 days before any rent rise. It must be delivered in writing, stating the amount of increase and the effective date. Tenants should keep a copy for their records.
  • Example: If you rent a lot in a Taunton mobile home park, and your rent is about to increase, you should receive a written notice 30 days prior. If it is not received, you may file a complaint with your local rent control board or city housing office.
  • Basic Rights for Mobile Home Park Residents (Mass.gov)
• Rent Control Board Application (For Park Owners)
  
  • Form Name: "Application for Rent Adjustment" (form name and process varies by town)
  • Use: Park owners must use this form to request rent increases above the allowed limit. Tenants can attend a hearing to object or provide statements.
  • Example: In the City of Taunton, park owners must submit an Application for Petition (Taunton Rent Control Board) for any increase. Residents can view or challenge the application at board hearings.

It is always wise to check with your local city or town clerk to confirm which rules and forms apply in your area. For more information, see official Massachusetts tenant rights for mobile home parks.

What Should I Do If I Receive a Rent Increase Notice?

• Check that you received at least 30 days' written notice.
• If your park is in a rent-controlled town, confirm that the landlord followed local board approval procedures.
• Request a copy of the application or board decision from your municipal office if you're unsure about the process.
• Prepare any questions or objections to raise at a rent control board hearing, if relevant.
• Keep all documents and notices related to your tenancy for your own records.

Which Government Board Handles These Issues?

In Massachusetts, local Rent Control Boards are created by individual towns or cities that have adopted local rent control ordinances. The Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) provides information and guidance statewide. Always check with your municipality to confirm the board and its rules for mobile home parks in your area.

Relevant Legislation

• Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 140, Section 32L (Authority for mobile home park rent regulation)
• Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 140, Section 32A (Definitions and general park rules)

FAQs: Rent Increases in Massachusetts Mobile Home Parks

1. How much can my rent go up in a Massachusetts mobile home park?
   There is no statewide cap, but if your local area has a rent control board, increases must be approved by that board and typically align with annual cost indices.
2. Can my landlord give a rent increase without notice?
   No. Park owners must provide at least 30 days’ written notice before any rent increase takes effect.
3. What should I do if the increase seems unfair or wasn’t approved?
   Contact your local rent control board (if one exists) or your town’s housing office. You may file a complaint and attend a hearing to share your concerns.
4. Can I be evicted for objecting to a rent increase?
   No. Retaliation for asserting your rights under mobile home park laws is generally prohibited in Massachusetts.
5. Where can I see if my town has mobile home rent control?
   Ask your town clerk or check your municipality's official website for information about rent control boards or ordinances.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways on Mobile Home Park Rent Increases

• Massachusetts law sets out notice and approval steps for mobile home park rent increases, especially where local rent control exists.
• Always check your city or town’s rules, as local boards may cap or review rent hikes.
• If you get a rent increase you believe is improper, official complaint and hearing processes are available to help protect your rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Basic Rights for Mobile Home Park Residents (Mass.gov)
• Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development
• Mobile Home Park Tenant Rights
• For town-specific forms or board contact: Visit your city or town's website or clerk's office.
• Tenant support or advocacy: MassLegalHelp – Mobile Homes

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1. Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 140, Section 32L – Mobile Home Rent Regulation
2. Mass.gov – Basic Rights for Mobile Home Park Residents
3. Application for Petition – Taunton Mobile Home Rent Control Board

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