Massachusetts Rent Increase Laws 2025: What Tenants Should Know

In 2025, Massachusetts rent increase laws continue to provide tenants with specific protections and guidelines regarding how landlords can adjust rental rates. Here’s what tenants should know:

Key Points on Rent Increases

No Rent Control: Massachusetts does not have statewide rent control laws. Landlords are free to set rent amounts and increase them as they see fit, provided they comply with notice requirements and non-discrimination laws.
Notice Requirements:
- For tenancy-at-will agreements, landlords must provide at least 30 days’ written notice before implementing a rent increase.
- If rent is paid less frequently (e.g., bi-monthly), the notice period must match the rental payment cycle.
- For fixed-term leases, landlords cannot raise the rent during the lease term unless the lease explicitly permits it. Increases can only take effect after the lease ends, with proper notice given.
Agreement Requirement: A rent increase is not enforceable unless the tenant agrees to it. If a tenant does not consent, they are only obligated to pay their current rent until an agreement is reached or the tenancy ends.
Fair Housing Compliance: Landlords cannot increase rent based on discriminatory reasons such as race, gender, disability, or familial status. Any violation of fair housing laws can lead to legal consequences for landlords.
Frequency of Increases: There is no legal limit on how often landlords can raise rent, provided they adhere to proper notice periods and lease terms.

Tenant Protections

Tenants have the right to safe and habitable living conditions. If a landlord fails to maintain these conditions, tenants may withhold rent or seek legal remedies.
Resources like Mass Legal Help are available to assist tenants in understanding their rights and addressing disputes related to rent increases or other housing issues.

Proposed Legislation in 2025

A new bill filed in 2025 aims to establish a rental arbitrator and limit rent increases based on factors like inflation (using the Chained Consumer Price Index). If passed, this law could introduce caps on rent hikes and add further protections for tenants. However, as of now, there are no statewide restrictions on the amount of a rent increase.

Practical Tips for Tenants

Review your lease agreement thoroughly to understand any clauses about mid-term rent increases.
Ensure you receive proper written notice for any proposed increase.
Seek legal advice or assistance if you believe a rent increase violates your rights or is discriminatory.