Can a landlord say “no” to Section 8 in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, it is illegal for a landlord to refuse to rent to someone solely because they have a Section 8 voucher. Landlords are not allowed to discriminate against prospective tenants based on their source of income, which includes Section 8 vouchers. This means that landlords cannot simply say “no” to Section 8 in Massachusetts.
The Massachusetts Anti-Discrimination Act prohibits landlords from discriminating against tenants based on their source of income. This includes Section 8 vouchers, as they are considered a lawful source of income.
FAQs:
1. Can a landlord refuse to accept Section 8 vouchers in Massachusetts?
No, landlords in Massachusetts cannot refuse to accept Section 8 vouchers as a form of payment for rent.
2. Is it legal for a landlord to deny housing to someone with a Section 8 voucher in Massachusetts?
No, denying housing to someone solely based on their Section 8 voucher is considered discrimination under Massachusetts law.
3. Can a landlord evict a tenant for using a Section 8 voucher in Massachusetts?
No, evicting a tenant solely for using a Section 8 voucher would be considered discriminatory and illegal in Massachusetts.
4. Are there any exceptions that allow landlords to say “no” to Section 8 in Massachusetts?
No, landlords are not allowed to make exceptions to refuse Section 8 vouchers in Massachusetts.
5. What should I do if a landlord refuses my Section 8 voucher in Massachusetts?
If a landlord refuses your Section 8 voucher in Massachusetts, you can file a complaint with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD).
6. Can a landlord charge higher rent to a tenant with a Section 8 voucher in Massachusetts?
No, landlords cannot charge higher rent to tenants with Section 8 vouchers in Massachusetts. The rent must be reasonable and within the limits set by the Section 8 program.
7. Can a landlord require additional screening for tenants with Section 8 vouchers in Massachusetts?
Landlords in Massachusetts can require the same application and screening process for tenants with Section 8 vouchers as they do for other tenants, as long as the criteria are applied equally.
8. Are there any penalties for landlords who refuse Section 8 vouchers in Massachusetts?
Landlords who refuse Section 8 vouchers in Massachusetts could face legal action, fines, and penalties for violating anti-discrimination laws.
9. Can a landlord limit the number of units available for Section 8 tenants in Massachusetts?
No, landlords cannot limit the number of units available for Section 8 tenants in Massachusetts. All available units must be open to Section 8 voucher holders.
10. Can a landlord request additional security deposit from a tenant with a Section 8 voucher in Massachusetts?
No, landlords cannot request additional security deposits from tenants with Section 8 vouchers in Massachusetts. Security deposit requirements must be the same for all tenants.
11. Can a landlord terminate a lease early if a tenant receives a Section 8 voucher in Massachusetts?
No, a landlord cannot terminate a lease early solely because a tenant receives a Section 8 voucher in Massachusetts. This would be considered discriminatory.
12. Can a landlord refuse to renew a lease for a tenant with a Section 8 voucher in Massachusetts?
No, landlords cannot refuse to renew a lease for a tenant solely because they have a Section 8 voucher in Massachusetts. This would also be considered discriminatory under state law.