The Massachusetts Sanitary Code requires landlords to

The Massachusetts State Sanitary Code (105 CMR 410) establishes minimum standards for human habitation. Landlords are required to ensure that rental units are kept in a safe, sanitary, and habitable condition at all times. This includes maintaining heating systems, hot water, structural integrity, pest control, and ensuring compliance with health and safety standards.

While landlords may provide a statement of condition when collecting a security deposit (per M.G.L. c. 186, § 15B), this is not part of the Sanitary Code itself. Similarly, no law requires inspections every six months or a 24-hour notice of entry (although reasonable notice is considered best practice and is recommended in case law).

The essential legal requirement is habitability. Tenants have the right to withhold rent or seek remedies if the landlord fails to maintain the property in compliance with the Sanitary Code. Local boards of health enforce these regulations.