WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SD 1305

An Act to further regulate tenant fees in rental housing

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jamie Eldridge

Massachusetts bill to restrict and regulate rental housing fees that landlords charge tenants, aiming to improve housing affordability.

House concurred
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SD 1305

Legislative bill overview

SD 1305 seeks to expand Massachusetts' regulation of fees that landlords can charge tenants in rental housing beyond what current law permits. The bill appears designed to address concerns about excessive or hidden fees in the rental market that increase housing costs for tenants. Specific fee restrictions would be determined by the bill's detailed provisions regarding which fees are allowable, prohibited, or capped.

Why this is important

Rental fees directly impact housing affordability—a critical issue in Massachusetts where the cost of renting has risen significantly. Excessive fees (such as application, processing, pet, or administrative fees) can add hundreds or thousands of dollars annually to rental costs, effectively pricing out lower-income renters. Regulating these fees could make housing more accessible, though it may also influence landlord behavior and investment decisions in the rental market.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition of "reasonable" fees: There may be disagreement over which fees are legitimate business costs versus excessive charges, and whether uniform caps or standards are appropriate across different regions and property types
  • Market impact on rental supply: Landlords may argue that fee restrictions reduce their ability to offset costs, potentially discouraging investment in rental properties or driving up base rents as an alternative
  • Enforcement and compliance: Questions about how municipalities would monitor compliance and what penalties apply, plus whether small landlords versus large corporations face different standards

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.