In-Law being rented out, Potential Issues?

Question

I am looking at a property, in MA, that is a legal 3 unit with a legal finished in-law basement. Currently the basement is being rented out per room. What are the potential risks and is it worth it?

Ema Silva · Answer

Thanks @Carini Rochester and Great info. I am moving forward with the building

Carini Rochester · Answer

The additional people in the rooms in the basement might be a zoning violation. This type of minor violations usually won't be enforced unless it be comes a nuisance (too much noise, obnoxious behavior, illegal parking, etc.) Even then, in my experience, zoning violation usually get dealt with through a letter from city hall giving you 30 days to comply. They don't haul you off to court, or immediately impose a fine. The extra people would get discovered by city hall if a neighbor turns you in.

Be a good neighbor.

Sher J. · Answer

@Ema Silva we would need more details number wise to make an accurate analysis. But from the information you have shared, I would start of understanding how utilities are separated. Additionally, have  units on top of each other could cause little issues to become big. As if you were to have a leak on the top floor it will now go down to the live in basement.