I am currently renting a single home and am moving out at the end of August. My landlord is now looking to show the house to prospective tenants. His realtor has the attitude of, "We're coming to see the house, so get out or we'll just come in." It's getting ridiculous. I got three hours of sleep last night and just had 12 people walk through the house when all I really want to do is rest. Is this legal? I understand he needs to rent out the place but is it acceptable for me to ask that the house be shown only on a certain day for a span of a couple hours while I'm out running errands? And if someone really wants to see the house, they can make an appointment at least 48 hours in advance. Last time I checked, I'm still paying the rent and living here and I need my space. Any advice on this topic would be greatly appreciated.
-- (Posted on the Forum by Ann)

You are correct, Ann. Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 186, Section 15B gives your landlord and his/her agent the right to enter your apartment for several specific purposes, including to inspect, make repairs, or to show the apartment to prospective tenants. However, that statute has been interpreted to require landlords to give reasonable notice (usually 24-48 hours) and to enter only at reasonable times (perhaps 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.?). Be firm, but polite, and the landlord and agent will change their ways. (I emphasize polite, because you may need a reference from your landlord someday.)