Property Management

Under Massachusetts Chapter 186, a tenant who discovers that their unit's heating system has failed in winter may:

AOnly report it to the Board of Health
BWithhold rent and/or hire a contractor to repair the heat, deducting the cost from rent (repair and deduct) in certain circumstances✓ Correct
CImmediately terminate the lease without notice
DOnly pursue a Chapter 93A claim

Explanation

Massachusetts law provides tenant remedies for breach of the implied warranty of habitability, including the right to withhold rent (by depositing it with the court) and the right to repair and deduct in certain circumstances. Heat failure in winter is a serious habitability violation under Massachusetts sanitary codes.

People Also Study

Practice More Massachusetts Real Estate Questions

1,500+ questions covering all exam topics. Start free — no signup required.

Take the Free Massachusetts Quiz →