Massachusetts
0.9 million Hispanics
Summary: renting in Massachusetts
Massachusetts has one of the strictest deposit laws in the country, with strong penalties for landlords who break it.
In this guide you will find, clearly and in plain language, the essentials about renting in Massachusetts: how much the landlord can charge you for a deposit, how much notice they must give you before an eviction, whether rent control exists, and what your basic rights are as a tenant. Knowing these rules is the first step to living with peace of mind and avoiding abuse.
Main law: Massachusetts Security Deposit Law
Maximum deposit
1 month of rent
Eviction notice
14 days
Rent control
Prohibited at the state level
💡 Tip for Massachusetts
The landlord must keep your deposit in a separate account and pay you interest every year.
⚠️ Common problem to avoid
Penalties: if the landlord mishandles your deposit, you could recover up to three times the amount.
Key tenant rights in Massachusetts
- • Right to a habitable and safe home
- • Protection against housing discrimination
- • Right to privacy (notice before the landlord enters)
- • Protection against retaliation for legitimate complaints
- • Right to the return of the security deposit
Do you have a problem with your landlord in Massachusetts? Follow these steps
- 1
Document everything: keep your lease, payment receipts, and take dated photos of any problem in the home.
- 2
Always notify your landlord in writing (text message, email, or letter) and keep a copy. Verbal messages do not work as proof.
- 3
If the landlord does not respond, seek free legal help for Massachusetts tenants. Many organizations advise you at no cost.
- 4
Call 2-1-1 to find local housing resources and assistance in your area, available in Spanish.
- 5
If you suffered discrimination, report it for free to HUD by calling 1-800-669-9777.
Frequently asked questions about Massachusetts
How much can the landlord ask me for a security deposit in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, the security deposit limit is: 1 month of rent. Always keep the payment receipt and take photos of the home condition when you move in to protect your money.
How much notice can they give me before eviction in Massachusetts?
The typical eviction notice in Massachusetts is 14 days. Never ignore a notice: respond immediately and seek free legal help if you believe the eviction is unfair.
Is there rent control in Massachusetts?
About rent control in Massachusetts: Prohibited at the state level. Even if there is no state control, some cities have their own rules, so check the local ordinance.
What is the main law that protects me as a tenant in Massachusetts?
The key law in Massachusetts is the Massachusetts Security Deposit Law. This rule defines your basic rights over habitability, deposits, repairs, and the eviction process.
Resources in Massachusetts
- • Call 2-1-1 for local resources
- • Free legal help for Massachusetts tenants
- • HUD — Discrimination complaints
Need a letter?
Download free model letters and documents to claim your deposit, request repairs, and more.
See documents