Student Renter Rights in Massachusetts: What You Need to Know

Renting a home or apartment while attending college in Massachusetts brings unique challenges and legal protections. As a student renting off-campus, it's important to understand your rights under Massachusetts law. You are protected by the same tenant laws as any other renter, whether you lease an apartment, share a house, or join a roommate agreement. Here, you'll find essential information to protect yourself and ensure a safe, fair rental experience.

Your Rights as a Student Renter in Massachusetts

Massachusetts law gives student renters strong protections. Landlords have legal duties to maintain safe and habitable homes and must follow rules for leases, security deposits, rent increases, and eviction. The main legislation governing these rights is the Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 186: Estates for Years and At Will (Tenancy Law)^[1].

Key Student Housing Rights

• Fair Housing: You cannot be discriminated against because you are a student, your age, race, national origin, sex, religion, disability, or other protected status (Massachusetts Fair Housing Law)
• Lease Agreements: Written or oral leases are valid, but written leases offer firmer protection for students
• Security Deposits: Landlords can charge up to one month’s rent and must follow special rules. They must provide a statement of the apartment’s condition and place the deposit in a separate account (Tenants' Rights and Duties Guide)
• Right to Repairs: Your landlord must keep your rental safe, clean, and up to code—even in student-targeted housing
• Privacy: Landlords must give you "reasonable notice" before entering (usually 24 hours)

Rental Agreements: Leases, Sublets, and Roommate Issues

Many students rent "at will" (month-to-month) or sign 12-month leases. If you need to move out early, you may sublet if your lease allows. Make sure to get any agreement in writing. Disagreements among roommates about rent law are generally private matters, but all tenants are protected by state law.

Repairs, Health, and Safety

Your landlord is responsible for keeping your living space safe and in good repair. This includes:

• Heat and hot water
• No pests, mold, or structural hazards
• Locks and secure doors
• Smoke/carbon monoxide detectors

If repairs are not made after you request them, you may use the "Request for Repairs" process. Document your requests in writing and keep copies.

Tip: Always use email or certified mail to send maintenance requests so you have proof of your communications.

What to Do if Your Landlord Doesn’t Make Repairs

• Write a formal repair request
• If not fixed within a reasonable time, contact your local Board of Health to schedule an inspection
• The Board of Health can order your landlord to make repairs

Rent Increases and Security Deposits

Rent can only be increased at the end of your lease period (not during a fixed-term lease) and with advance written notice. For security deposits, your landlord must:

• Provide a written statement of the apartment’s condition at move-in (Statement of Condition Form)
• Keep your deposit in a separate bank account and give you a receipt
• Return your security deposit within 30 days of move-out, minus any allowable deductions

Evictions: Your Rights and Process

Your landlord cannot evict you without a court order. The steps for eviction include:

• Receiving a written notice (14-Day Notice to Quit for nonpayment of rent, or 30-Day/lease end notices)
• Filing a court eviction case (called a "Summary Process" case)
• Attending a court hearing
• You have the right to present your defense

For eviction actions and disputes, the official tribunal is the Massachusetts Housing Court.

Official Forms for Student Renters

• Statement of Condition Form (No form number)
  • Use: You and the landlord fill this out at move-in to document the apartment's condition, protecting your security deposit.
  • Download from Mass.gov
• 14-Day Notice to Quit
  • Use: This is the landlord’s notice for unpaid rent. If you receive one, seek help or respond quickly.
  • View sample from Mass.gov
• Summary Process Summons and Complaint (Trial Court Form Nos. HOU-99, HOU-100)
  • Use: Starts the formal eviction. Respond by filing an "Answer" in Housing Court.
  • Learn steps from Mass.gov

FAQ: Massachusetts Student Renter Rights

1. Do student renters have the same rights as other tenants in Massachusetts?
   Yes, student renters are protected by all Massachusetts landlord-tenant laws, including repair, privacy, and anti-discrimination protections.
2. Can a landlord refuse to rent to me because I’m a student?
   No. Refusing to rent based solely on student status may violate Massachusetts Fair Housing Law.
3. How much can my landlord charge for a security deposit?
   Landlords can only charge up to one month’s rent as a security deposit and must follow strict legal rules for handling it.
4. What if my apartment needs urgent repairs?
   Request repairs in writing immediately. If repairs are not made, contact your town’s Board of Health for help.
5. Where can I get official help with a rental dispute?
   Housing Court is the main tribunal for rental disputes. Free legal help may be available to low-income students.

Key Takeaways for College Renters

• Your renter rights are fully protected under Massachusetts law
• Always document requests and agreements in writing
• Seek help from Housing Court, town health boards, or legal aid if you face eviction or unsafe conditions

Knowing your rights keeps you empowered and protected throughout your college rental experience.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Massachusetts Housing Court – Official court for resolving tenant-landlord disputes
• Tenant Rights and Responsibilities – Mass.gov
• Local Board of Health Directory – For housing repair and safety issues
• MassLegalServices.org – Legal resources for renters and students
• Emergency Housing Help – Mass.gov

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1. [1] Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 186: Tenancy Law
2. Massachusetts Fair Housing Law: Fair Housing Protections
3. Tenant Rights Overview: Mass.gov Tenant Info
4. Summary Process (Eviction) Resources: Massachusetts Eviction Guide

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations