Massachusetts Eviction Laws
Massachusetts requires at least 30 days notice to terminate a tenancy at will and 14 days notice for nonpayment of rent.
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
Some citations below have not been confirmed against their official source. Confirm current requirements with local legal aid or an attorney.
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.
Not confirmed against its source · checked
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.
Not confirmed against its source · checked
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.
Not confirmed against its source · checked
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.