Blog - Archived - Page 9 of 111

Two Urban Forests Planned by MassLandlords on Donated Lands

First Published November 25th, 2024 | Updated August 22nd, 2025 Posted in News - 0 Comments

an aerial overview photo of a triangular parcel of land in Springfield, Mass., overgrown with trees and brush, surrounded by some houses and some commercial businesses, residential streets and a busy road flanking one side

Two property owners responded to our outreach to donate unbuildable urban lots. We plan to turn the lots into thriving mini-forests.

Housing Court Rules: “Hold Fees” Unlawful in Massachusetts

First Published November 25th, 2024 | Updated March 14th, 2025 Posted in News - 0 Comments

A street view of 80 The Fenway, a collection of condos and apartments in a white multistory stone building. The building has two front entrances, each labeled “80 The Fenway,” and is on what appears to be the end of a roundabout or cul de sac.

Only collect the fees the state allows, and if the tenant changes their mind before lease signing, refund them. Deposits to hold an apartment, aka “hold fees,” are not lawful.

Elections Results 2024: Deferred Seats

Posted on November 25th, 2024 Posted in News - 0 Comments

Our 2024 election concluded without election of a director. This seat will be deferred to 2025.

Judge to Order Boston to Show Rent Control Committee Origins

First Published November 18th, 2024 | Updated September 30th, 2025 Posted in policy - 1 Comment

Low winter sunlight shines on an ornate, late 19th century concrete structure. A modern steel skyscraper in shadow sits to the right of the building.

Sweeping order to issue against city in MassLandlords vs. City of Boston over public records from the rent stabilization advisory committee.

Horton v. Washington: Judge Rules No Retaliation in Landlord–Tenant Case

Posted on October 29th, 2024 Posted in News - 0 Comments

A street view image of the property at 10 Waterloo St., Hyde Park, Massachusetts. It is a two-story building with beige siding and a small lawn out front.

The Eastern Housing Court ruled that tenants’ counterclaim in their summary process case did not meet the burden of proof for retaliation.

Letter from the Executive Director for November 2024: Writing Grant Proposals

Posted on October 25th, 2024 Posted in News - 0 Comments

Our Letter from the Executive Director for November 2024 details two grants we’re pitching for, plus our work to modernize our services and offerings.

Ballot Question 1: MassLandlords Recommends Vote “Yes” to Hold the Legislature Accountable via Audit

Posted on October 23rd, 2024 Posted in News - 0 Comments

A faded image of the Massachusetts state house, with the words “Legislature: NO ACCESS” in bold red letters superimposed over it.

The legislature holds itself above the law, denying the state auditor access to evaluate its activities, and stating it can audit itself. It’s time for that to change.

When are Landlords Responsible for Crimes at Rentals? Chicopee Housing Authority, Former Director Named in Wrongful Death Suit

First Published September 24th, 2024 | Updated October 30th, 2025 Posted in News - 0 Comments

A street view taken in autumn of a row of connected one-story brick apartment buildings at the end of a paved cul-de-sac. Trees with yellow and red leaves surround the buildings.

Plaintiffs allege CHA and Monica Blazic knew the accused was dangerous prior to the stabbing of Domingo Arocho. When is a landlord responsible for crime on their property?

Letter from the Executive Director for October 2024: MassLandlords Elections

Posted on September 24th, 2024 Posted in News - 0 Comments

Our Letter from the Executive Director for October 2024 talks about housekeeping activities designed to ensure we continue to operate securely.

RealPage Automated Price-Optimization Software in DOJ Crosshairs for Possible Antitrust Violations

Posted on September 24th, 2024 Posted in News - 0 Comments

derivative illustration of the Sherman Antitrust Act on a piece of parchment with handwritten cursive, depicted as torn apart down the middle, with a large, black question mark overlaying the document.

Is it illegal collusion when thousands of landlords set rental prices based on an algorithm that includes nonpublic lease data? DOJ lawsuit will decide.