Are you in the process of renting an apartment in Massachusetts? It can be fast, but also tricky due to the competitive market dynamics. The overall process doesn’t have to be stressful. You just need to have the right plan and execute it with confidence. Read this guide, and we will share detailed steps on what you can do to rent your next apartment in Massachusetts.
Contents
Important Questions to Ask When Touring an Apartment
An apartment tour is a chance you get to check the condition of the apartment. You should also consider it as an opportunity to ask questions. Here are the questions you should ask when touring the apartment. Always include questions to ask when touring an apartment about the neighborhood’s safety and amenities.
Questions about the unit
- What is the exact monthly rent, and what does it include, such as heat, hot water, or parking?
- How is heat delivered: gas, oil, or electric? Who pays the bill? How old is the system?
- What is the average monthly utility cost in winter and summer?
- Is the apartment insulated? Are the windows double-paned? Do they open and close well?
- How much natural light comes in during the day? Check rooms at different times if possible. This is something you shouldn’t ignore when renting a studio apartment.
- Is there central air or window units? Who installs and stores them?
Questions about fees and deposits
- What is due at lease signing? In Massachusetts, the norm can include first month’s rent, last month’s rent, a security deposit up to one month’s rent, and a lock or key fee if the landlord changes the lock. Ask for a written list.
- Are there broker fees? Some rentals use an agent who may charge a fee equal to one month’s rent. Confirm who pays and when.
- Are there pet fees or pet rent? Ask about breed limits and proof of vaccines.
- Are any fees nonrefundable? Ask for this in writing.
How to Complete the Massachusetts Rental Application Successfully
Filling out a Massachusetts rental application accurately is the first step toward securing a new home. However, this application can usually be a lengthy one. It will ask for your contact information, rental history, income, and even your authorization to do a credit check. Here’s how you can go through this application process smoothly.
What to gather before applying
- Government ID.
- Last 2–3 pay stubs or a recent offer letter if starting a new job.
- Employer contact for verification.
- Last 2 months of bank statements to show funds for move-in costs.
- Previous landlord contact and dates of tenancy.
- References who can confirm reliability and on-time payments.
- Pet records if applicable.
How to present income and credit
- Many landlords look for gross monthly income equal to about 2.5–3 times the rent. If income is lower, consider a co-signer or larger savings balance.
- Credit reports matter. If there are late payments or high balances, add a short, honest explanation and show current on-time payments.
- If new to the U.S. or lacking credit, show proof of funds, a job contract, or a guarantor. Some landlords accept a higher deposit or last month’s rent in advance, within legal limits.
Filling out the form
- Use the exact legal name that matches your ID.
- Answer every question. Leave no gaps for dates of employment or addresses.
- Check spelling of emails and phone numbers for references and employers.
- Disclose pets, vehicles, and any relevant history truthfully. Omissions can lead to denial later.
- If sharing the apartment, each adult usually submits a separate application.
Submitting and following up
- Submit the application the same day as the tour if the unit is a fit. Attach all documents in one clean file set, labeled clearly.
- Ask what timeline to expect for approval. If you did not hear back within the stated time, send a polite follow-up.
- If approved, request the lease and all fee details in writing before paying.
Understanding Your Rights and Responsibilities as a Tenant
Massachusetts has strong tenant protections. Knowing the basics helps make smart choices and avoid disputes.
Security deposits and last month’s rent
- A security deposit can be up to one month’s rent. It must be held in a separate, interest-bearing account under the tenant’s name. The landlord must provide a receipt and the location of the account within the legal time frame.
- Last month’s rent, if collected, also accrues interest that must be paid yearly or at move-out.
- On move-in, the landlord should provide a statement of the apartment’s condition. Take photos and note any damage. Send a copy to the landlord and keep one for records.
Fees and unlawful charges
- Application fees are uncommon. If charged, ask for an itemized explanation. Broker fees are allowed if disclosed. Lock changes may be charged if performed.
- Late fees usually cannot be charged until rent is at least 30 days late, based on common Massachusetts lease standards. Always confirm exact lease terms.
- Landlords cannot charge for normal wear and tear. Deductions from the security deposit must be itemized and based on actual damage or unpaid rent.
Habitability and repairs
- Landlords must provide a safe, habitable home that meets the state sanitary code. Heat must be provided during the heating season, and hot water must be available at all times. Pests, leaks, or broken locks must be addressed within a reasonable time.
- Tenants should report issues in writing and keep copies. For urgent safety issues, reach out via call and email, and document photos and dates.
- If repairs are not made, local health or inspection departments can be contacted for an inspection. Escrow or rent withholding may be options, but legal advice is wise before taking those steps.
Fair housing and discrimination
- Federal and state law forbid discrimination based on protected classes. In Massachusetts, this includes race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, familial status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, source of income, including housing vouchers, and veteran status.
- If discrimination is suspected, keep records of ads, messages, and responses. Complaints can be filed with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination or the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Entry and privacy
- Landlords must give reasonable notice for non-emergency entry, typically to make repairs or show the unit. Emergencies such as fires, floods, or gas leaks allow immediate entry.
- Tenants should receive notice before routine showings near lease end and may request reasonable times.
Move-out and getting the deposit back
- Give written notice according to the lease timeline. Clean the apartment, fix minor nail holes, and remove all items.
- Do a final walk-through with photos. Request a written itemized list of any deductions. Provide a forwarding address to receive the deposit and interest within the legal deadline.
Final Words
Renting in Massachusetts is about preparation, clear questions, and respect for the rules. Start with a realistic budget and a document packet ready to go. During apartment tours, test everything, ask questions, and compare options. Before signing, read every page and confirm all fees and dates in writing. Know the rights to a safe home and the duties to pay rent on time, care for the unit, and communicate in writing