What Massachusetts Renters Should Know About Future Rent Control Laws

With rising housing costs, many Massachusetts renters wonder about possible changes to rent control laws. Discussions in the Massachusetts legislature and local governments are shaping the future of rent control and rent stabilization in the state. Understanding the current landscape—and what may change—can help renters advocate for their rights and respond to potential rent increases or disputes.

What Is Rent Control and Why Does It Matter in Massachusetts?

Rent control is when the government sets limits on how much landlords can increase rent for certain rental homes. Rent stabilization usually means limiting increases while offering added tenant protections. Currently, there is no statewide rent control in Massachusetts. Rent control ended in the state in 1994 after a referendum, and since then, cities and towns have not been allowed to set their own rent control laws without explicit state approval.^[1]

Recent Legislative Efforts for Rent Control

Recent years have seen proposals to bring rent control back to Massachusetts, especially in high-cost areas like Boston and Somerville. In early 2024, the Massachusetts House and Senate considered several bills that could allow local communities to adopt their own rent stabilization ordinances. While no new laws have passed yet, it's important for renters to stay informed as the situation could change.

• Bill H.1304/S.886: Would let cities and towns adopt local rent control or rent stabilization ordinances if they choose. As of June 2024, this bill is pending at the committee stage. Read the current status of H.1304.
• Tenant Protection Act: Often referenced in news, this type of law would limit how much and how often rent can increase, and may offer protections from eviction without a good reason ('just cause').

If these or similar laws pass, cities and towns in Massachusetts could set up their own boards to regulate rent increases and mediate disputes between renters and landlords.

How Renters Can Protect Themselves While Laws Evolve

Even while the future of rent control legislation in Massachusetts remains uncertain, renters still have many rights under current law. State statutes outline rules around rent increases, habitability, security deposits, and eviction. If you receive notice of a rent increase or feel your rights as a renter have been violated, knowing your options is key.

Forms and Action Steps for Massachusetts Renters

• Notice to Quit – This is not a form renters complete, but if your landlord is ending your tenancy (for example, starting an eviction), they must give you a written "Notice to Quit". Learn about this at the Mass.gov Eviction Process page.
• Tenant’s Answer to Complaint (Housing Court Summons Form) – Used if you receive a court summons for eviction and wish to state your response or defenses. You can access guidance and forms from the Massachusetts Housing Court.
• Request for Reasonable Accommodation – If you have a disability and need the landlord to make an exception (such as for a service animal), there is a standard process. Sample forms and guidance are found via the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination.

It’s a good idea to keep all written communications with your landlord and make copies of any forms you submit.

Who Regulates Residential Tenancies in Massachusetts?

Residential tenancy disputes in Massachusetts are primarily handled by the Massachusetts Housing Court, which oversees issues like rent increases, security deposits, repairs, and evictions. Tenant and landlord rights and obligations are principally governed under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 186 (Tenancy in General) and related housing statutes.^[2]

FAQ: Massachusetts Renters and Rent Control

1. Is rent control currently in effect anywhere in Massachusetts?
   No, there is currently no local or statewide rent control active in Massachusetts. Some cities want to reinstate it, but it would require new state laws.
2. What should I do if my rent is raised suddenly?
   Landlords can increase rent only when your lease expires or in accordance with rental agreements. If you believe a rent increase is unlawful or an act of retaliation, contact the Massachusetts Legal Help Housing section or your local Housing Court.
3. How can I keep up with future changes to rent control laws?
   Monitor the official Massachusetts Legislature website for updates on bills and consult city or tenant advocacy resources.
4. Are there any official forms I can use to challenge a rent increase?
   There's no official form for challenging a rent raise, but if you are being evicted, you should file the "Tenant’s Answer" form with the Housing Court. Always keep written records and consider seeking legal advice promptly.
5. Who can I call if I need legal help or advice about my tenancy?
   Call the nearest Housing Court location or contact Mass Legal Help for free or low-cost legal assistance.

Key Takeaways for Massachusetts Renters

• Massachusetts does not currently have rent control, but lawmakers are debating new laws for local rent stabilization.
• Stay informed by following official government updates on pending rent control legislation.
• For any disputes or sudden changes, contact the Massachusetts Housing Court or a local legal aid group for guidance.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Massachusetts Housing Court – Handles tenant-landlord issues and eviction cases.
• Rent Stabilization Bill H.1304 – Official government page for tracking legislative progress.
• Massachusetts Legal Help – Housing Issues – Guides and contact for free legal advice.
• Mass.gov Tenant Rights – State government guide to tenant rights and responsibilities.
• Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination – Help for renters facing discrimination, including reasonable accommodation forms.

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1. For information on Massachusetts’ prohibition on local rent control and legislative history, see the 1994 State Law Ending Rent Control.
2. Read the official Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 186 for tenancy definitions and protections.

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