The bill introduces CHAPTER 43.1 to Title 34 of the General Laws, establishing new insurance requirements for owners of large multi-family dwellings, specifically focusing on tenant relocation insurance. It mandates that owners, landlords, maintenance companies, or entities responsible for the structure of any large multi-family dwelling maintain insurance coverage that provides for the temporary housing of tenants for a period of at least thirty (30) days if the dwelling loses its certificate of occupancy or becomes uninhabitable due to a fire, act of God, flood, or other sudden occurrence. The insurance must cover reasonable costs associated with temporary housing, including rent and storage for displaced tenants, and remain effective for a minimum of thirty (30) days following the event that renders the property uninhabitable.

The bill outlines tenant rights, including the right to be informed about the temporary housing insurance coverage maintained by the landlord, to receive timely updates during the relocation process, and to have reasonable access to their personal belongings in the affected dwelling. It also ensures that tenants are protected from adverse actions by landlords as a result of exercising their rights under this law.

Additionally, the bill amends Section 27-5-3 of the General Laws to require that fire insurance policies for multi-unit residential properties include benefits for tenant relocation costs, up to $10,000 per rental unit, without a deductible. This coverage is designed to assist tenants displaced by fire or other qualifying losses.

The Department of Business Regulation is granted the authority to enforce compliance with these requirements and to promulgate necessary rules and regulations. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, allowing property owners time to comply with these new insurance mandates aimed at enhancing tenant protections against housing instability.

Statutes affected:
943: 27-5-3