Basic Rights
Right to Non-Discrimination: It is against the law in Massachusetts to discriminate against renters on the basis of sex, race, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, military background or service, marital status, sexual preference, deafness, blindness, or the use of a service dog. It is also illegal for landlords to discriminate against tenants who will have a child, or children, under the age of 6 staying with them.
Safety and Health: As a renter of a property, you have a right to safe and habitable accommodations. All Massachusetts tenants have the right to sanitary residences. While there are several aspects to the state sanitary code, a few of the basics include a right to potable water, heating, lighting (either natural or electric), and the upkeep of general maintenance.
Safety and Health: As a renter of a property, you have a right to safe and habitable accommodations. All Massachusetts tenants have the right to sanitary residences. While there are several aspects to the state sanitary code, a few of the basics include a right to potable water, heating, lighting (either natural or electric), and the upkeep of general maintenance.
It is important to note that Nantucket vacation rentals and all short-term vacation rentals in Massachusetts are exempt from the state lead paint laws, even when a child under the age of 6 is occupying the premises. If you are concerned about the presence of lead, you may want to stay at one of the Nantucket house rentals built or remodeled after 1978.
Security Deposit Refund: The homeowner must refund your security deposit within 60 days from the day your check-out. General protocol for vacation rentals on Nantucket is that the security deposit is 10% of the gross rental amount. If the homeowner deducts any amounts from the security deposit, they are required to provide an itemized list of damage caused by you, a person on the property with your consent, or a pet. You are not responsible for damages that resulted from reasonable use or normal wear and tear on the property.
Privacy: The homeowner, landlord, or their agent may need to enter the property during your stay, but you still have a right to a reasonable expectation of privacy. There are limited instances in which homeowner or their agent may enter a Nantucket house rental including: to make repairs, to inspect the condition of the premises, or in accordance with a court order. Even in these instances, the landlord is required to try to arrange a mutually convenient time to visit the property. If you are renting a property that is on the market for sale, normally there is a 24-hour show clause attached with the lease.
In Massachusetts, both landlords and tenants have rights and responsibilities. A lease is a legally binding contract. This includes vacation and short-term Nantucket house rentals. Keep these rights in mind while searching for your next vacation rental.
Everything provided in this article is not intended to serve nor is a primary source of legal advice. In order to be certain about the laws and regulations pertaining to your particular situation, please seek legal help. The sole purpose of this article is to help you think about certain items that you might want to clarify in advance in order to avoid any confusion or litigation.