Representation for Massachusetts Landlords
Unlike firms that have seen only one side of the story, we have worked with landlords, tenants and even financial institutions holding residential real estate. As such, we know how to prepare a strong case, proactively addressing issues the other side may also be thinking about. We represent landlords throughout Springfield and Northampton. Contact us online or call 413-315-5394 to schedule your appointment.
Problems Due to Nonpayment and Bad Behavior
Residential evictions in Massachusetts are usually brought in Housing Court. Under Massachusetts law, residential landlords are held to high standards with respect to the repair and maintenance of their properties, the utilities serving the property, as well as the possession and use of tenant monies. As a commercial landlord is operating a business, a landlord is not generally going to initiate an eviction for frivolous reasons. Evictions are usually brought due to non-payment or on a "for cause" basis due to a material breach of a lease by a tenant. Any eviction is expensive and, if contested, requires a hearing before a judge. Further, a tenant in any eviction has the right and the opportunity to assert in his or her defense any and all counterclaims.
As there may be an actual trial, landlords need competent and informed counsel. During our practice, we have represented clients ranging from small Ma and Pa landlords battling for a single eviction to large landlords acting as court-appointed Receivers of complexes with several hundred units.
Although we have a varied client base, all our landlord clients share several major concerns: costs relating to suit and potential exposure relating to any and all tenant counterclaims. There are several statutes regulating landlords, and they must be organized and careful in the way they handle security deposits. A security deposit that is deposited in the wrong account can force the landlord to pay the tenant three times the amount of the original deposit. In addition, if there are any problems with the condition of the place being rented, the landlord might be held for breach of contract.
We have substantial experience protecting the rights of landlords in all areas of landlord tenant law. Contact us online or call 413-315-5394 to schedule your consultation.
