The bill amends the "Residential Landlord and Tenant Act" by introducing a "Tenants' bill of rights," which grants tenants several new protections. These include the right to be informed by a judge about the availability of a public defender in eviction cases for those who cannot afford a lawyer and have children, the right to habitability, the right to organize without harassment, a right of first refusal to purchase the property if the landlord decides to sell, and protection against discrimination in rental property availability or terms based on personal characteristics. It also safeguards tenants from eviction without just cause. The bill further amends Section 34-18-15 of the General Laws, which pertains to rental agreements, by allowing for terms not prohibited by law, specifying conditions for rent payment and tenancy duration, and providing lease termination rights for tenants aged 65 or older or servicemembers under certain circumstances. A new insertion sets the default lease renewal period to year-to-year, with the option for the tenant to choose a different term, and caps rent increases upon renewal at 4% per year unless a greater increase is warranted by evidence.

Additionally, the bill delineates the responsibilities of both owners and occupants regarding the upkeep of dwellings, dwelling units, or structures. Owners must ensure that vacant properties are habitable and maintain common areas in multiple dwellings, while occupants are responsible for the cleanliness of their areas and proper waste disposal. Owners of buildings with four or more units are required to provide waste disposal facilities and are responsible for installing screens, doors, windows, and privacy shades. Occupants must handle extermination unless the infestation is due to the owner's negligence or affects multiple units. A new section (l) requires owners of multiple dwellings to address insect infestations, including bed bugs and other pests, by inspecting within 96 hours of notification, communicating results within two business days, and starting mitigation within five business days of notice from an inspector. The bill, which includes limitations on rent increases and establishes a default lease renewal term, will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
6062: 34-18-15, 45-24.3-6