Massachusetts Landlord Notice to Enter

Massachusetts Landlord Notice to Enter

Last updated May 1st, 2023

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A Massachusetts notice to enter is used to communicate a landlord’s intention to enter a tenant’s rental unit during the lease term. The landlord will fill out the notice to include their contact details, the time and date of the scheduled entry, and a statement explaining why they require access to the property. While Massachusetts law doesn’t specify the amount of notice a landlord must provide before entering a rental unit, it’s common courtesy to provide at least 24 hours’ notice and to schedule visits at reasonable times of the day.

Emergency Access (Attorney General’s Guide to Landlord and Tenant Rights) – Notice of entry is not required if there is an emergency that could put the building at risk or affect the health and safety of the tenants (e.g., fire, flood, gas leak).

Laws

According to Massachusetts law, a written lease agreement may include a provision that gives the landlord permission to enter the rental unit to:

  • Inspect the premises;
  • Conduct repairs; or
  • Show the property to potential tenants, purchasers, moneylenders or their agents.

A lease agreement may not allow the landlord to enter the property for any other reason.

Statute: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 186, § 15B(1)(a)

Entry Exceptions

Other than the reasons for entry outlined in the lease agreement, access to the premises is also allowed if:

  • The landlord receives a court order for entry.
  • The tenant abandons the property.
  • The landlord needs to check the property for damages within the final 30 days of the lease or after either party chooses to terminate the tenancy.

Statute: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 186, § 15B(1)(a)