Landlord Entry Rules in Massachusetts
Massachusetts rules on landlord entry for renters and landlords, with the statute or official page behind each answer. Last verified: 2026-10-23.
Short answer: No set advance-notice period (for example, 24 hours) in the statute. A lease may allow the landlord to enter only to inspect, make repairs, or show the unit to prospective tenants, buyers, or mortgagees; under a court order; G.L. c. 186, § 15B(1)(a)
The rules in Massachusetts
| Landlord entry notice | No set advance-notice period (for example, 24 hours) in the statute. A lease may allow the landlord to enter only to inspect, make repairs, or show the unit to prospective tenants, buyers, or mortgagees; under a court order; if the unit appears abandoned; or within the last 30 days of the tenancy, after either party has given notice to end it, to inspect for damage that could be deducted from the deposit. The AG guide says the landlord must arrange entry with the tenant in advance for repairs, inspections, or showings. Entry without the tenant's approval is allowed for a mechanical or repair emergency that could damage the building, or for apparent abandonment: https://www.mass.gov/guides/the-attorney-generals-guide-to-landlord-and-tenant-rights. The statute does not state a specific number of hours' notice. Source: G.L. c. 186, § 15B(1)(a) |
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Related questions
Massachusetts vs. neighboring states
| State | Landlord entry notice |
|---|---|
| Massachusetts | No set advance-notice period (for example, 24 hours) in the statute. A lease may allow the landlord to enter only to inspect, make repairs, or show the unit to prospective tenants, buyers, or mortgagees; under a court order; if the unit appears abandoned; or within the last 30 days of the tenancy, after either party has given notice to end it, to inspect for damage that could be deducted from the deposit. G.L. c. 186, § 15B(1)(a) |
| Connecticut | Reasonable written or oral notice and entry only at reasonable times, except in an emergency. No fixed number of hours in the statute. Without consent, entry only in an emergency, under § 47a-16a (extended absence), by court order, or after abandonment. Conn. Gen. Stat. §§ 47a-16, 47a-18a |
| New Hampshire | Landlord may not enter without the tenant's consent except for emergency repairs or under a court order. Tenant may not unreasonably refuse entry at a reasonable time after 'notice which is adequate under the circumstances' (no fixed number of hours). RSA 540-A:3, IV-V |
| New York | No statute. Per the NY Attorney General, a landlord may enter with reasonable prior notice at a reasonable time, with consent or as the lease allows (e.g., repairs, inspections, showings); in an emergency, entry without notice or consent is allowed. No statute; NY Attorney General Residential Tenants' Rights Guide |
| Rhode Island | At least 2 days' notice of intent to enter, at reasonable times, except in an emergency or when impracticable. Entry without consent allowed in emergencies, or during a tenant absence of more than 7 days if reasonably necessary to protect the property. R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-18-26 |
| Vermont | With tenant consent (not to be unreasonably withheld), or between 9:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. on at least 48 hours' notice for inspections, repairs, services, or showings. No notice needed if the landlord reasonably believes there is imminent danger to a person or property. 9 V.S.A. 4460 |
City rules that may add to state law
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Landlord Entry Rules in Massachusetts FAQ
Can a landlord enter without notice in Massachusetts?
No set advance-notice period (for example, 24 hours) in the statute. A lease may allow the landlord to enter only to inspect, make repairs, or show the unit to prospective tenants, buyers, or mortgagees; under a court order; if the unit appears abandoned; or within the last 30 days of the tenancy, after either party has given notice to end it, to inspect for damage that could be deducted from the deposit. (G.L. c. 186, § 15B(1)(a))
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.