Summary
Some U.S. states have introduced laws to stop landlords from charging renters hidden fees known as "junk fees." These fees are extra charges added to rent that are not clearly communicated to tenants. States like Massachusetts, California, and Colorado are part of this movement to increase transparency in rental costs.
Key Facts
- "Junk fees" refer to hidden or misleading charges added to the base rent.
- Massachusetts, California, and Colorado are among states introducing laws against these fees.
- The Federal Trade Commission proposed the Junk Free Prevention Act to address this issue nationally.
- As of September, Massachusetts banned rental junk fees, including application fees.
- Colorado's law, starting in 2026, prevents extra charges and requires total rent cost advertisements.
- Nineteen states, including Hawaii and New York, have laws limiting or banning hidden rental fees.
- Rhode Island and Maine prohibit landlords from charging application fees.
- Connecticut limits tenant screening report fees to $50 and restricts other special fees.
