Are you renting out a 1–4 unit property in Somerville and wondering which rules actually apply and who to call when something comes up? You juggle maintenance, paperwork, and tenant questions, so clear answers save time and headaches. In this guide, you’ll get the key Massachusetts codes, Somerville contacts, and a simple checklist you can use before your next lease. Let’s dive in.
Key Massachusetts codes to follow
Sanitary code basics
The Massachusetts State Sanitary Code sets the minimum standards for safe, habitable housing, including heat, hot water, egress, pest control, and ventilation. Somerville’s Health Division enforces these standards during inspections and complaint responses. Review the full text of the State Sanitary Code 105 CMR 410 to know what inspectors look for.
Smoke and CO alarms
Working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are required by state law, with placement and device rules that depend on building age and type. For specifics and updates, check the state’s smoke and CO alarm guidance. For local questions or inspections, contact Somerville’s Fire Prevention Bureau.
Lead paint rules
If your building was built before 1978, you must provide federal lead-paint disclosures and follow Massachusetts lead requirements, including deleading or interim controls in many situations where a child under six will live in the unit. Learn what is required on the Massachusetts Lead Law page.
Permits and renovations
Structural changes, unit conversions, and most ADU or basement projects require permits and code compliance. Start with Somerville’s Building Division to confirm zoning, permits, and whether licensed contractors are required. Do this before work starts.
Deposits and records
Massachusetts has strict rules for security deposits and last month’s rent, including escrow accounts, timely notices, and condition statements. Review the state’s overview on holding a security deposit and set up a repeatable process for receipts, interest, and returns.
Evictions and legal process
Evictions require formal notices and a court process. Never use self-help tactics like lockouts or utility shutoffs. If you must proceed, follow the court’s steps to file an eviction case and keep thorough documentation.
Quick Somerville contacts
Use these city contacts to get answers fast or to route tenant concerns.
- Inspectional Services Department (ISD): General permitting, Building and Health divisions. Phone: 617-625-6600 x5600; Email: [email protected]; Office: 1 Franey Rd. Learn more about ISD here.
- Health Division (ISD): Housing inspections and sanitary code enforcement. Tenants often start through 311.
- Fire Prevention Bureau: Fire code and smoke/CO questions. Phone: 617-625-6600 x8400; Email: [email protected]; Address: 1 Franey Rd. More info here.
- Somerville 311: Route complaints and service requests. Dial 311 in Somerville or 617-666-3311 from outside; Email: [email protected]; Online portal: Somerville 311.
- Water & Sewer Department: Billing, meters, final reads, and lead service inquiries. Phone: 617-625-6600 x5850; Email: [email protected]; Address: 17 Franey Rd.
- Housing Division / Office of Housing Stability: Landlord-tenant resources and city programs. Phone: 617-625-6600 x2577 (Housing) / x2581 (OHS).
- Somerville Housing Authority: Public housing and voucher program contacts. Phone: 617-625-1152.
Somerville programs and updates
- Short-term rentals: Somerville requires registration and has operator rules for most short-term rentals. If you host furnished stays, review the city’s short-term rental ordinance and register before booking.
- Rental registry and energy disclosure: The City has discussed a rental registry and energy disclosure ordinance. Check City updates for any adoption and timelines.
- Affordable housing waitlist: The City is moving to a consolidated waitlist for income-restricted units. Tenants interact with this program, but it is useful context for landlords.
A simple compliance checklist
Use this before listing a unit or signing a lease.
Safety and habitability
- Confirm working heat, hot water, sanitary plumbing, safe egress, and adequate ventilation. Document maintenance.
- Install and test smoke and CO alarms. Record device type, location, and install dates.
- Inspect for pests and schedule remediation if needed.
Lead and disclosures
- For pre-1978 buildings, deliver required lead disclosures and the EPA/HUD pamphlet before lease signing. Plan for deleading or interim controls if a child under six will live there.
Permits and contractors
- For ADUs, basement conversions, structural or significant work, call ISD’s Building Division and pull permits before starting. Verify contractor licensing as required.
Paperwork and funds
- Provide the unit condition statement within 10 days of move-in. If you take a security deposit, open a separate interest-bearing escrow account and give required notices within 30 days. Track interest and follow return timelines.
Communications and issues
- Set a clear process for repair requests. If a tenant raises a code concern, coordinate promptly and know that they can route complaints through 311.
If a tenancy must end
- Use proper notices and court filing procedures. Do not attempt self-help.
When to call the City
- You are planning a renovation or conversion and want to confirm permits and code paths. Call ISD’s Building Division.
- You need guidance on smoke or CO alarm compliance. Call Fire Prevention.
- A tenant reports a habitability concern that may trigger inspection. Expect contact via 311 or the Health Division.
- You operate a short-term rental and need registration help. Check the City’s STR page.
Ready to streamline your Somerville rental plans? If you are weighing renovations, tenant strategy, or timing a sale, connect with Moving Greater Boston for local insight and a clear plan.
FAQs
Do small landlords need a rental license in Somerville?
- As of now, Somerville does not have a citywide annual rental registry, but it enforces state housing codes and requires registration for most short-term rentals.
How do tenants file a housing complaint in Somerville?
- Tenants can dial 311 in Somerville or 617-666-3311 from outside the city, or use the online 311 portal to request a health or housing inspection.
Who checks smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in rentals?
- Device rules come from state law, and Somerville’s Fire Prevention Bureau is your local contact for questions and inspections.
What should I do before renting a pre-1978 unit?
- Provide required lead disclosures and be ready to delead or use interim controls if a child under six will live in the unit, following Massachusetts Lead Law.
I want to add an ADU or convert a basement. Where do I start?
- Call Somerville’s Building Division to verify zoning and permits, then apply before work begins and confirm any contractor licensing requirements.
