December 29, 2015
A one-year lease represents a significant obligation, so it is natural for Massachusetts landlords to want to carefully screen prospective tenants. As explained by the Massachusetts Attorney General, however, many housing discrimination laws exist at the state and federal levels to prevent landlords from advertising or screening practices that might be interpreted as discriminatory to prospective tenants. New landlords in particular should consider creating a standardized screening practice with help from a Boston landlord-tenant lawyer who is well-versed in state and federal laws.
Read More
Posted in Landlord-Tenant Information
December 24, 2015
While tenants view their residential rental units as their homes, most landlords view them purely from a business perspective. They are more familiar with the details of landlord-tenant law, so when landlord-tenant disputes arise, tenants are immediately at a disadvantage. That being the case, every tenant should know the basics of the law and when to turn to an attorney for legal advice and support.
Read More
Posted in Landlord-Tenant Information
November 25, 2015
After making repeated attempts to get landlords to make needed repairs to their apartments, many tenants see no other options than to withhold rent to send a message. The details behind these issues are paramount in determining when rent withholding is a legally-viable option.
Read More
Posted in Landlord-Tenant Information
November 11, 2015
It is not difficult to understand why tenants do not want their landlords to have unfettered access to their rental properties. Residential renters see their apartments as their homes. Anything disturbed during an unexpected visit raises immediate fears of burglary or other criminal activities. Businesses have similar anxieties, compounded by concerns about other businesses spying or theft of trade secrets. These are some of the reasons why Massachusetts law places certain limits on the property access rights of landlords.
Read More
Posted in Landlord-Tenant Information
October 30, 2015
Landlords generally view the rental of residential property largely as an income-generating business, viewing cash flow in and out as primary issues. Tenants see that same rental more personally since it pertains to a home that provides safety and comfort to their families. When disputes arise, they often end up going through a time-consuming courtroom process that is subject to complex laws and procedures.
Read More
Posted in Landlord-Tenant Information
