Landlord’s Right To Entry in Massachusetts

Landlord’s Right To Entry in Massachusetts

Last Updated: May 30, 2024 by Roberto Valenzuela

Legal Reasons for Entry
  • Inspections
  • Maintenance
  • Property Showings
Notice Requirement
  • No Specific Requirement
Penalties for Illegal Entry
  • Court Injunction
  • Cost of Damages
  • Breaking the Lease
  • Court + Legal Fees

Does a Landlord Have the Right To Enter a Rental Property in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts landlords have the right to enter a rental property for inspections, maintenance, and property showings. Unlike most states, these are the only reasons a landlord is legally allowed to enter in Massachusetts. Leases allowing other terms are unenforceable.

Can a Landlord Enter Without Permission in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts landlords can legally enter a rental property without permission for the three purposes allowed by law. However, since the renter has a right to the quiet enjoyment of the premises, it’s risky for the landlord to enter without permission unless there’s a provable reason why.

Can a Landlord Enter Without the Tenant Present in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts landlords can legally enter a rental property without the tenant present.

Can a Landlord Show a House While Occupied in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts landlords can show an occupied house. It’s one of the three allowed reasons for landlords to enter in Massachusetts.

How Often Can Landlords Conduct Routine Inspections in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts landlords have no specific limit on how often they can enter for inspections. The landlord isn’t allowed to enter unreasonably often, but what’s reasonable gets decided case by case.

How Much Notice Does a Landlord Need To Provide in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts law doesn’t have a general standard for advance notice. However, entry for purposes related to the health and maintenance code requires at least 48 hours of advance notice. This provides a guideline for entry related to other purposes.

Can a Landlord Enter Without Notice in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts landlords can enter without notice for repairs, inspection, and showings. However, the landlord could be legally liable if he disturbs the quiet enjoyment of the property, such as by unreasonably entering without notice.

How Can Landlords Notify Tenants of an Intention To Enter in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts landlords can notify tenants verbally or in writing about an intention to enter.

Can a Tenant Refuse Entry to a Landlord in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts tenants usually can’t refuse entry to landlords entering for one of the three legally allowed purposes (inspections, maintenance, and showings). The only exception is when the entry takes place in a way that disturbs quiet enjoyment of the property (for example, entering at 2:00 AM for routine maintenance).

What Happens If the Tenant Illegally Refuses Entry to the Landlord in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts landlords can take any of the following actions if a tenant illegally refuses entry:

    • Get a court order to force access
    • Deliver a Notice to Quit and begin the eviction process
    • Recover cost of any actual damages

Can a Tenant Change the Locks Without Permission in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts tenants can change locks without permission if the lease doesn’t say otherwise. Note that the landlord still has a right to enter for specific reasons, so it’s reasonable for tenants to provide copies of current keys.

What Can a Tenant Do If the Landlord Enters Illegally in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts tenants can take any of the following actions if the landlord enters illegally:

  • Get a court order to ban the landlord from entering
  • Ask a court to cancel the rental agreement
  • Recover court costs and attorney fees from the landlord
  • Recover cost of any actual and consequential damages or three months’ rent (whichever is greater)

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