Submitted by raclark on Tue, 05/05/2009 - 16:16
I'm about to sign a lease on an apartment, but the landlord is claiming that he need an extra $200 dollars to hire professional cleaners to clean the apartment after we move out if necessary. But we are already paying a security deposit equal to one months rent, and this extra fee isn't included in the lease. Is this a legal charge?
Editor's Response
Massachusetts law prohibits landlords from collecting any money in advance of a new tenancy other than the first and last month's rent, a security deposit in an amount equal to or less than one month's rent, and the cost of installing a new lock. (Massachusetts General Laws, c. 186, s. 15B). Good luck, and please tell your friends about The Forum.