Cambridge, Massachusetts · Change
Applying for a place
What they can ask for in Cambridge
How much can they charge me to apply?
No application fee allowed.
Only first month, last month, deposit and a lock fee.
Show the law
“no lessor or agent of the lessor may require a tenant or prospective tenant to pay, to the lessor or to an agent of the lessor, any amount in excess of the following:”
How big can the deposit be?
Max 1 month's rent.
It must sit in a separate bank account and come back within 30 days.
Show the law
“a security deposit equal to the first month's rent provided that such security deposit is deposited as required by subsection (3) and that the tenant is given the statement of condition as required by subsection (2)”
Can they turn me down for a housing voucher?
No. Vouchers count as income.
Turning you down for a voucher is illegal.
Show the law
“Under the law, landlords, sellers and rental agents may use any reasonable standard to determine which applicants are selected, as long as that standard is applied equally and uniformly to all applicants …”
Who can help
- See Cambridge tenant rightsFree counselors explain your options, by phone or in person.Cambridge tenant rights
- Get free legal helpFree help with your situation.MassLegalHelp
- Find a lawyerReferral service of the State Bar.Massachusetts Bar lawyer referral service
Information about the law, not legal advice.