Bill > S2834

This bill establishes a voluntary homesharing program in Massachusetts to help homeowners and renters share living spaces under specific guidelines. The bill creates a new legal framework that allows homeowners (homesharing providers) to rent a room in their owner-occupied property to a homesharer at below-market rates, potentially in exchange for light domestic services like housekeeping or yard work. The Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) will oversee the program, establishing regulations including background checks, a standardized agreement template, and safety protocols. A new Homesharing Opportunity Relief Fund will be created to provide assistance in case of failed agreements or emergencies. The bill also mandates specific insurance requirements: homesharing providers must have at least $1,000,000 in property and liability coverage, while homesharers must maintain a renter's insurance policy with at least $100,000 in personal property and liability protection. Importantly, participants will be exempt from traditional landlord-tenant laws, and the services exchanged cannot include healthcare or medical assistance, must not exceed 7 hours per week, and cannot be the primary purpose of the agreement. The program aims to create flexible, affordable housing options while establishing clear guidelines to protect both homeowners and renters.

Budget and Finance

Joint Committee on Housing (Joint)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2834