The bill introduces Chapter 43.1 to Title 34 of the General Laws, titled "Insurance on Multi-Unit Dwelling -- Tenant Relocation Insurance." It requires owners or landlords of large multi-family dwellings, defined as buildings containing more than twelve residential units, to maintain insurance 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 the reasonable costs of temporary housing, including rent and storage for displaced tenants, and remain effective for a minimum of thirty (30) days following such incidents.

The bill outlines tenant rights, including the right to be informed about the temporary housing insurance coverage maintained by the landlord, to receive timely information about their rights during the temporary housing period, and to have reasonable access to their personal belongings. It also prohibits landlords from taking adverse actions against tenants for exercising their rights under this law.

Additionally, the bill amends Section 27-5-3 of the General Laws to require fire insurance policies for multi-unit residential properties to 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 the insurance requirements and to promulgate necessary regulations. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, with existing large multi-family dwellings required to comply by January 1, 2027, while newly constructed or converted dwellings must comply upon issuance of their initial certificate of occupancy.

Statutes affected:
943: 27-5-3