Massachusetts Renters' Rights
According to the 34-page Massachusetts Sanitary Code, landlords must meet minimum standards of habitability. New tenants often know their rent and due date, but few are aware of their entitlements in exchange for rent.
The Massachusetts Sanitary Code (105 CMR 410.000) outlines these standards, which include requirements for kitchen and bathroom facilities, ceiling heights, windows, electrical outlets, heating, hot water, lead paint, ventilation, and smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
If a tenant finds their unit does not meet these requirements, they can request their landlord to remedy the issue within a reasonable time frame.
No tenant should have to tolerate substandard living conditions, from rats to leaks.
Tenants have the right to a safe and habitable living space, and the Sanitary Code ensures that landlords provide this.
Author's summary: Massachusetts renters have rights to habitable living spaces.