Brookline, Mass., Code of Bylaws ch 5 2 § 5.2.2
Definitions (Brookline Condominium Health and Safety at Time of Conversion)
Operative Text
As used in this chapter, the following terms shall have the meanings indicated: OWNER Includes a legal or beneficial owner, lessor, sublessor, manager, assignee, or other person receiving or entitled to receive rent for the use or occupancy of any housing accommodation or an agent of any of the foregoing.
Section 5.2.2 of Brookline's Code of Bylaws Chapter 5.2 establishes a broad definition of 'Owner' for purposes of the chapter's rent regulations. The term covers not only those who hold legal title to a property but also beneficial owners, lessors, sublessors, managers, assignees, and anyone else who receives or is entitled to receive rent—as well as their agents. This expansive definition means that the chapter's obligations and protections apply across a wide range of parties involved in the rental relationship, not just the person whose name appears on a deed.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under § 5.2.2, the definition of 'Owner' is intentionally broad, meaning that property managers, agents, sublessors, and assignees are each individually captured by the chapter's requirements—not just the titleholder. Operators who manage properties on behalf of others, or who collect rent in any capacity, should be aware that they may bear the same responsibilities under Chapter 5.2 as the underlying property owner. Compliant operators typically ensure that everyone in their management chain understands which obligations flow from this definition.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 5.2.2 means that tenants are not limited to looking only at a deed-holder when asserting rights under Brookline's Chapter 5.2—a property manager, agent, sublessor, or anyone else collecting rent may also qualify as an 'Owner' under the chapter. This broad definition can be relevant when a tenant seeks to raise a violation or pursue a complaint, since multiple parties in the rental arrangement may be covered. Tenants who want to understand how this definition applies to their situation may find it helpful to consult a local tenant-rights organization familiar with Brookline's rent regulations.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated November 11, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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