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Moving In: What's Next After Your ADU is Built?

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Your ADU is ready for move-in! Gather all the necessary information on registering your ADU as a rental property and your responsibilities as a landlord.

Moving In Overview

Timeline diagram showing the process to build an ADU, with the final stage, which is moving in, highlighted.

Congratulations on your new ADU! As you prepare your unit for move-in, keep the following information in mind.

If you plan to use your ADU as a rental unit, there are still a few more steps you'll need to take before your tenants can move in. Complete all the steps for rental property registration and make sure you're aware of your responsibilities as a landlord ahead of time. 

Before You Start: verify that all final inspections are complete

You must receive a Certificate of Occupancy from the City's Inspectional Services Department before you or anyone else can occupy your ADU. For more information about constructions or inspections, please see our page Building Your ADU.

ADU Questions? We can help!
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We'll answer your questions at any stage of the process. Email ADU@boston.gov

Registering Your ADU

If you will be using your ADU as a rental property, you must register it annually with the City. 

REGISTER YOUR ADU

All rental properties, including ADUs, must be annually registered with the City during the open registration period of January 2 - June 30. However, after you've finished construction on your ADU, you do not need to wait for the open registration period for initial registration. You can register your property once you've obtained your Certificate of Occupancy. Properties may be registered online, by mail, or in person. Learn more here.

I'm not charging my tenants rent. Do I still need to register my adu?

Yes. You must still register your ADU even if you are not collecting rent from your tenants or if your tenants are relatives who are 18 years of age or older and not on the deed. Properties that are vacant or being renovated must also be registered annually. Rental properties are subject to inspections at least once every five years.

RENTAL INSPECTION ORDINANCE

Landlord Responsibilities

As a landlord, you have certain responsibilities to your tenants. If you're becoming a landlord for the first time, it's important that you take the time to learn what your duties will be and what you can expect. 

TOP TIPS FOR LANDLORDS

If you have questions or run into issues, the City's Office of Housing Stability offers support for both landlords and tenants. They also offer free landlord counseling that can help you understand your rights and responsibilities as a landlord as well as learn best practices for maintaining your property, working with tenants, and managing lease agreements. 

LANDLORD RESOURCES

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