6. BEFORE YOU SIGN, KNOW YOUR RIGHTS AS A TENANT

It will probably make you happy to know that Massachusetts has many laws protecting the rights of tenants. For example, you are entitled to interest on your security deposit, and you are not obliged to pay certain extra fees that your landlord may dream up. So no, your landlord isn't allowed to suddenly create a "pet fee" or "guest fee." When you move in, the most you should pay is first and last month's rent, a security deposit (equal to a month's rent) and the cost of a new lock. Anything more is illegal. Naturally, get a receipt for everything you fork over.

Once you've found an apartment, make sure you know your rights and responsibilities as a tenant. Your rights are best protected if you have a written lease. If you have an oral lease, you may be subject to restrictions that you weren't aware of. Just do what we say and get yourself a written lease. We don't like being argued with, especially when we're right. Be sure to check that the following are correctly recorded:

  • All names and addresses
  • Dates of occupancy
  • Rent amount
  • Details about the security deposit
  • Parking spot specifications (if you get one).

If the landlord has made you any promises, like cleaning the Cheez Whiz from the kitchen ceiling, make sure you get it in writing or at least have a third party listen in. Landlords are notorious about "getting around to something." If it's in black and white, you have more justification when you refuse to pay the rent.

Some other little-known facts about renting an apartment in Boston:

  • In the Bay State, landlords are responsible for paying for hot water and sewage unless specified otherwise in the lease.

  • Landlords must put your security and last month deposit in an interest-bearing account and pay you the interest once a year.

  • You are not required to pay for expected wear and tear to the apartment, unless you have done some major damage. When you move in, consider photographing or video-taping the empty pad in event of a dispute.

If your landlord turns out to be an unhinged lunatic who forbids you from having the occasional overnight guest and claims you are harboring hidden roommates, here are some agencies to help you with any legal questions. They include the Massachusetts Tenants Organization at 617-367-6260, and the Harvard Law School's Tenant Advocacy Project at 617-495-4394. You also should check out Ten Tips Every Tenant Needs to Know to familiarize yourself with basic tenant rights, remedies, and obligations.

Good luck and happy hunting!