Can a landlord deny a tenant access to a basement where the circuit breakers and shut off valves are located?
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Can a landlord deny a tenant access to a basement where the circuit breakers and shut off valves are located?
In Massachusetts please.
Asked on January 11, 2017 under Real Estate Law, Massachusetts
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 7 years ago | Contributor
If the basement is not part of the area or property leased (i.e. it is outside the area or apartment or unit you are leasing; or was specifically excluded under the terms of the lease), then yes. A lease is a contract; you have only those rights, and access to only those areas, which the lease gives you. On the other hand, if under the lease (e.g. it is part of what you are leasing), you should have access to this area, then the landlord must give you access.
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