Can My Landlord Charge Pet Rent in Massachusetts?
Problem: Samson is the best cat in the world. For the most part, he just sits by the window and watches the day go by. You have had Samson since you moved out of your parents’ place. He is not your partner, but he is close. Your landlord recently found out that Samson lives in the apartment with you. The lease is due to be renewed and the landlord has informed you that he will be charging a pet rent if Samson continues to live with you. Is charging pet rent legal in Massachusetts?
Answer: A landlord may charge pet rent. The law is not terribly clear on this but thus far, there is no case in point making the extra charge for a pet on a monthly basis illegal.
A landlord may also charge a “pet deposit” as long as taken together with the security deposit, it does not exceed one month’s rent. Read more about Pet Deposits here.
If you think you landlord is not in compliance with Massachusetts Tenant/Landlord Law, contact us.
I live in Lowell, MA and my landlord (a corporation) charges pet rent. However, I ran into a man who lives here in another apartment complex who stated that because pet rent is illegal in MA, he challenged his landlord in court, and won. So, if it’s legal, how did this guy win?