Massachusetts Move-In Checklist: Inspections & Key Disclosures

Before signing a lease in Massachusetts, it’s crucial to perform a careful move-in inspection and review all required landlord disclosures. Doing so can help protect your renter rights, ensure a safe living environment, and avoid future disputes about damages or missing amenities. Massachusetts has specific laws about what must be disclosed and detailed requirements for inspecting and documenting your rental’s condition.

Why a Thorough Move-In Inspection Matters

A detailed inspection and record mean you are less likely to be held responsible for pre-existing damages or problems. Massachusetts law requires landlords to give you certain disclosures and, in some cases, to use official forms for documenting the property’s condition and your security deposit.

What to Inspect Before Signing Your Lease

• Overall cleanliness: Ensure the unit is clean and free of pests.
• Walls and flooring: Check for cracks, holes, stains, or water damage.
• Windows and doors: Test locks, screens, and look for drafts or broken glass.
• Kitchen and bathroom fixtures: Turn on faucets, flush toilets, and check under sinks for leaks.
• Appliances: Make sure all appliances work properly.
• Smoke & carbon monoxide detectors: Massachusetts law requires working alarms. Test each one.
• Heating and hot water: Verify your heat, plumbing, and water are in working order.
• Exterior conditions: Inspect outdoor lighting, exits, and shared spaces.

Required Landlord Disclosures in Massachusetts

Massachusetts landlords are required to provide certain disclosures to tenants at or before lease signing:

• Lead Paint Disclosure: If the property was built before 1978, landlords must provide a lead paint disclosure form and any available reports.
• Security Deposit Receipt and Statement of Condition: If you pay a security deposit, the landlord must provide a receipt and a detailed Statement of Condition form (see more below).
• Notice of Former Use for Certain Residential Properties: If the unit was used as a site for methamphetamine production, disclosure is required.

Official Move-In Forms: Name, Use, and Links

• Statement of Condition (official form): Landlords who collect a security deposit must give you this form when you move in. Use it to document pre-existing damages. Complete, sign, and return it to the landlord within 15 days of receiving it.
  Example: If you see a cracked window pane during your walk-through, record it in the Statement of Condition so you’re not blamed for it later.
• Lead Law Tenant Notification (form): Required if the building was built before 1978. Review, sign, and keep a copy for your records.

What Happens After the Move-In Inspection?

• Return the completed Statement of Condition within 15 days, noting any damage
• Keep a signed copy; your landlord must either agree with your notes or outline what they contest
• Use your copy to resolve disputes about damage or deposit deductions at move-out

Your Rights under Massachusetts Law

All tenant-landlord relationships in Massachusetts are governed by Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 186 and Chapter 239 (Evictions).¹ For official guidance or disputes, the Massachusetts Housing Court hears residential tenancy matters.²

Summary: Key Steps for Massachusetts Renters

• Inspect and document the unit before signing or paying
• Complete and return the Statement of Condition if you pay a security deposit
• Verify all required landlord disclosures are provided
• Save copies of all forms and correspondence

Taking these steps upfront protects your security deposit and your rights as a renter.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is a move-in inspection required before I sign a lease in Massachusetts?
   No, but it is highly recommended—especially if you pay a security deposit. Completing the official Statement of Condition helps protect you from being blamed for pre-existing damage.
2. What if my landlord does not give me a Statement of Condition?
   If you paid a security deposit and did not receive the form, remind your landlord in writing. Landlords are required by law to provide it, and failure to do so can affect their ability to keep your deposit.
3. How do I document pre-existing damages?
   Note all issues on the Statement of Condition, take timestamped photos, and send a copy to your landlord within 15 days of moving in.
4. Do I need to sign a lead paint disclosure?
   Yes, if the building was built before 1978. You must be provided and sign the disclosure and receive related information.
5. Who can help if I have a move-in dispute?
   The Massachusetts Housing Court handles move-in and deposit disputes. You can also contact local tenant advocacy groups for advice.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Massachusetts Housing Court: Handles all residential tenancy disputes, including move-in issues and security deposit claims.
• Mass.gov – Renter Rights & Responsibilities: State-run information hub for tenant laws, official forms, and safety standards.
• Massachusetts Office of Consumer Affairs & Business Regulation: Additional guidance on landlord-tenant relationships and complaint procedures.
• MassLegalHelp Housing: Plain-language guides and form samples for renters in Massachusetts.

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1. Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 186 – Estates for Years and at Will (Landlord-Tenant Law)
2. Massachusetts Housing Court
3. Statement of Condition Form (Official Download)
4. Lead Paint Disclosure Requirements (Mass.gov)

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