Partner
Owning rental property can be a wise investment, but it also comes with legal responsibilities that can catch you off guard. Many landlords assume they can handle everything on their own—until something goes wrong. Whether you’re managing a single-family home or multiple units, having legal support can help you avoid common pitfalls and protect what you’ve worked hard to build. In this blog, we’ll walk through situations where it makes sense to have a lawyer on your side and how we can help you stay on steady ground with your rental property.
When Legal Help Makes Sense
Being a landlord means more than collecting rent. You’re running a business, and with that comes a fair amount of legal risk. Things may go smoothly for a while, but issues can arise without much warning.
Here are some situations where getting legal help makes a difference:
- Drafting or reviewing lease agreements
- Evicting a tenant or dealing with nonpayment
- Handling complaints about unsafe conditions or repairs
- Addressing zoning or building code violations
- Dealing with property damage, security deposit disputes, or discrimination claims
If you’re managing these challenges alone, it’s easy to overlook essential steps or miss deadlines that can weaken your position. We’re here to help you stay organized and avoid unnecessary legal headaches. Even if you’re confident in your approach, a second set of eyes can give you peace of mind.
Lease Agreements: The Foundation of a Strong Rental
A well-written lease isn’t just a formality—it’s a key tool that can prevent confusion and protect your interests. Too often, landlords rely on generic templates that don’t cover their property’s unique needs.
We work with landlords to create clear, enforceable lease agreements that set expectations from day one. A strong lease should outlin the following:
- Rent due dates and penalties for late payments
- Rules for property use and maintenance responsibilities
- Procedures for handling repairs or emergencies
- Conditions for renewal, termination, or subletting
When issues come up later, your lease is often the first thing everyone looks at. A solid agreement can save time, avoid conflict, and keep your rental business running smoothly.
What About Evictions and Disputes?
Evicting a tenant is one of the most challenging situations a landlord can face. It’s also one of the most regulated. In Massachusetts, the eviction process has specific steps you must follow—and skipping one can delay your case or get it thrown out altogether.
If you’re dealing with nonpayment, property damage, or serious lease violations, we can help you:
- Send the right notices
- File the necessary paperwork in court
- Represent you during hearings
On the other hand, if a tenant makes a claim against you—whether it’s about unsafe living conditions, withheld deposits, or discrimination—we can help you respond the right way. These situations can escalate quickly, and having a lawyer by your side can prevent minor issues from turning into bigger problems.
Peace of Mind for Property Owners
Not every legal issue is dramatic. Sometimes, you just want someone to confirm that what you’re doing is okay. That’s where we come in.
We help landlords with things like:
- Understanding new rental laws
- Preparing for property inspections
- Reviewing notices or communications before they’re sent
We’re also here when something unexpected happens—maybe a tenant breaks a lease early, or you want to sell the property and aren’t sure how that affects current tenants. Having someone you can call in these moments can make your life easier and your business more secure.
Protect Your Rental Property
You don’t need to wait for a legal emergency to ask for help. At LaFountain & Wollman P.C., we work with rental property owners throughout Massachusetts to provide practical legal support for the everyday issues landlords face. If you have questions about leases, evictions, or anything in between, contact us. We’ll help you understand your options and find the right approach for your situation—so you can manage your property with confidence.