Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Massachusetts
return of keys
Is there any action that a landlord can take against a tenant who does not return keys to the mailbox/apartment? Is the landlord responsible to change all locks before a new tenancy begins?
Asked on 2/06/02, 10:15 pm
1 Answer from Attorneys
Robert Trant
Law Office of Robert R. Trant
Re: return of keys
A landlord can charge a new tenant for the cost associated with installing new locks. This should be discussed with the tenant prior to agreeing to rent the unit. The maximum amount a landlord can request upfront is first month's rent, last month's rent, security deposit equal to first month's rent and the cost of installing a new lock.
Answered on 2/07/02, 8:24 am