Since this week my blog has been all about renting in Massachusetts, I thought I'd end the week with another commonly asked question concerning prepaid rent. Did you see my blog on pet deposits? (Also not allowed in Massachusetts!)
Sometimes we have tenants request to pay a year's worth of rent upfront or a few months' rent, and they are surprised to learn that Massachusetts does NOT ALLOW prepayment of rent.
If you rent in Massachusetts, knowing the rules about prepaid rent is important. Landlords can ask for upfront payments, but state laws protect renters.
What Is Prepaid Rent?
Prepaid rent refers to rent paid ahead of time for periods after the initial month. In Massachusetts, laws strictly control what landlords can require from tenants as a new tenancy begins.
What Can a Massachusetts Landlord Legally Collect Before You Move In?
Massachusetts General Laws c. 186, § 15B specifies that your landlord can ask for only certain up-front payments when starting a new tenancy. These are:
First Month’s rent
Last Month’s rent
Security Deposit (Can not be more than one month's rent)
Actual cost to change the lock and keys
Landlords are not allowed to ask for prepaid rent covering any months other than the first and the last month's rent. The law prohibits additional advance payments or 'extra months' of rent.
Before renting a property in Massachusetts, it’s important to be familiar with the rules and regulations. Feel free to reach out if you need any help.
Comments(8)