Massachusetts Eviction Laws
Massachusetts requires at least 30 days notice to terminate a tenancy at will and 14 days notice for nonpayment of rent.
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Key Rules
- Notice Period
- 30 days (or one full rental period, whichever is longer) for tenancy at will
- Just Cause Required
- Yes — retaliatory evictions barred; eviction for protected activities is invalid
- Cure Or Quit Period
- 14 days for nonpayment; 7 days to cure lease violations (practice standard)
- Summary Process Court Required
- Yes — all evictions must go through Housing Court or District Court
Applicable Statutes
Termination of tenancy at will: landlord must give at least 30 days written notice, or a full rental period notice if longer, to terminate a tenancy at will.
Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 186, § 11
Notice to quit for nonpayment of rent: landlord must give at least 14 days notice to quit for nonpayment of rent before filing a summary process action.
Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 186, § 18
Retaliatory eviction: presumption of retaliatory eviction arises when landlord brings eviction action within 6 months of tenant engaging in protected activity.
Legal Aid Resources
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Not Legal Advice. This site provides general educational information only — not legal counsel. Laws vary by location. Consult a qualified attorney for advice on your specific situation.