Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in Massachusetts

I have been living in a apartmemt for 13 years, I move there because i have a cat. it was ok with them, A new company bought the complex in 2000. they knew i had a cat ,Because we have yearly inspections, But this year I received a letter from them stating that my rent will go up $25 per cat , monthy. I called them and they said that I have to pay because that is their rule...I never got a letter from them 10 yrs. ago, stating that I would have to pay,,,I thought i would be grandfathered in, But they said NO. They have a ad in the newspaper saying that they are "cat freindly" but they do not mention the fee. Is there any way I do not have to pay?


Asked on 2/18/10, 7:48 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Alan Pransky Law Office of Alan J. Pransky

You probably have to pay the increase. You didn't state if you have a written lease which could change this answer. Assuming that you are a tenant at will, the landlord has the right to charge you a higher rent than others. As a result, the landlord can offer to charge you a higher rent based on cats. Your option is to accept the increase or leave.

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Answered on 2/23/10, 8:13 am


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