Answers to Frequently Asked Questions by Landlords.
Understanding the rules of a property can distinguish what it means to have a proper landlord to tenant agreement. Tenants will know many of these rules and regulations by heart and it is important that you as a landlord do the same. If everyone is on the same playing field, it will make for a better relationship between yourself and your tenants.
This blog is part of a series that covers four basic areas where landlords often get confused or tripped up:
In this Blog, we are going to focus on Disclosure & Notes:
Basics on Lease Disclosure and Notes
What are the Landlords Responsibilities Regarding Water Usage and Water Heat?
Essentially, you’re responsible for infrastructure. The landlord must provide the means for enough water and pressure to satisfy ordinary needs. Landlord also must provide the means to heat the water to 110F-130F degrees. The tenant may be responsible for the cost of water and fuel to heat it.
What about Heat?
While your tenant may be responsible for the fuel/ electricity to heat the unit based on your lease, you are responsible to make sure the rooms are heated properly.
From September 16 to June 14, this every room must be heated to at least 68F between the hours of 7:00 AM and 11 PM, and at least 64F at all other hours.
What Are My Requirements for a Kitchen?
In MA, the landlord has to provide a proper kitchen, which consists of:
1) A sink of sufficient size and capacity for washing dishes and kitchen utensils
2) A stove and oven in good repair (unless your written lease requires you to provide your own), and;
3) Space and proper facilities for the installation of a refrigerator. (If a refrigerator is provided, however, the landlord must keep it in working order.)
Do You Have to Provide a Disclosure of Insurance?
As a landlord, it is your responsibility to provide the name of the property insurance company, the amount of insurance, and the name of any person who would receive payment for a loss covered by such insurance within 15 days of request by a tenant or government official. Failure to do so is punishable by up to a $500 fine.
Who is Responsible if there are Cockroaches and Rodents?
If there is more than two units in your building, it’s your responsibility as a landlord to maintain a unit that is free from rodents, insect infestations and cockroaches.
Want to Learn More About Being a Landlord?
These are just some of the many things covered in our EBook called “50 Things Every MA Landlord Should Know”. If you’d like a free copy, please fill out the form below or call us at 617.212.3251.
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DISCLAIMER: The data and information in our blog are merely our opinions and should not be construed as advice or counsel on financial or legal matters.
About the Author
Stephen Martin, Founder, and CEO of MultifamillyProperties.com, is a success-driven marketing entrepreneur with a diverse background ranging from real estate sales and mortgage financing to consulting and development to marketing and branding. Steve is the founder and former CEO of the b Positive Project Apparel Co. A socially responsible clothing line whose mission it was to raise funds for hundreds of non-profits throughout New England. Steve is always looking for creative ways to add value to his businesses. He has a genuine passion for helping others and making a positive impact.
