Bill > H5008

This bill establishes limits on annual rent increases for most residential rental units in Massachusetts, aiming to provide housing stability and prevent displacement. It defines "Covered Dwelling Units" as most residential rentals, excluding those in owner-occupied buildings with four or fewer units, units already regulated by a public authority (though housing voucher recipients are not excluded by this), short-term rentals of less than 14 days, units for educational, religious, or non-profit purposes, and new constructions for the first 10 years after receiving their occupancy permit. For eligible units, annual rent increases will be capped at the lower of the annual increase in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) or 5%. The rent amount on January 31, 2026, will be the base for calculating future increases, with specific rules for vacant units or those with no recent rent history. Violations of this chapter will be considered unfair and deceptive practices under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 93A, allowing tenants to pursue remedies and the Attorney General to enforce the law with penalties and other relief.

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H5008