What is CORI and how does a Massachusetts landlord access it?

CORI stands for Criminal Offender Record Information, maintained by the Massachusetts Department of Criminal Justice Information Services (DCJIS). Private landlords may access CORI through the online iCORI system at icori.chs.state.ma.us after registering. Standard access shows open criminal cases, misdemeanor convictions within 5 years, felony convictions within 10 years, and convictions for murder, manslaughter, and sex offenses regardless of age.

What is the new Massachusetts eviction record sealing law?

Effective May 5, 2025, Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 239, Section 16 allows tenants to petition courts to seal certain eviction records. Dismissed cases may be sealed immediately; no-fault evictions after the case concludes; nonpayment cases after 4 years; and fault/criminal evictions after 7 years. Once sealed, landlords cannot use the record in screening decisions, and tenants may lawfully answer that they have no eviction record.

Can a Massachusetts landlord automatically reject an applicant based on criminal history?

No. Massachusetts law prohibits landlords from automatically disqualifying applicants based on criminal conviction records. Landlords must individually consider the nature and severity of each conviction, time elapsed, and evidence of rehabilitation. CORI checks must also be conducted as the final step in the screening process, after other criteria have been evaluated.

What income standard can a Massachusetts landlord use for tenant screening?

While not a legal requirement, housing specialists commonly recommend that a tenant's gross monthly income be at least three times the monthly rent as a minimum qualification threshold. Landlords may request pay stubs, bank statements, tax returns, or employment verification letters as proof of income.

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