How many days notice does a landlord need to give for non-payment of rent in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, a landlord must give 14 days notice to pay or quit before filing for eviction due to non-payment of rent. This is governed by Massachusetts General Laws Ch. 186 (Landlord and Tenant) + Ch. 239 (Summary Process).

What is the no-cause notice period for landlords in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, landlords must provide 30 days notice to terminate a month-to-month tenancy without cause.

What are the valid grounds for eviction in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts recognizes the following grounds for eviction: Non-payment of rent; Lease violation; End of lease; Nuisance; Illegal use.

Massachusetts Landlord-Tenant Law

Q: Is there rent control in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts has rent control provisions. Boston and Brookline have local rent stabilization measures (post-2023). Cambridge repealed rent control in 1994.

Tribunal: Housing Court / District Court

14 Days — Pay or Quit

30 Days — No-Cause Notice

14 Days — Cure or Quit

Notice Periods

Situation	Notice Required
Non-payment of rent	14 days to pay or quit
Month-to-month termination (no cause)	30 days
Lease violation (cure or quit)	14 days

Security Deposit

Maximum 1 month's rent (M.G.L. ch. 186 § 15B). Must be held in an interest-bearing account.

Grounds for Eviction

Non-payment of rent
Lease violation
End of lease
Nuisance
Illegal use

Rent Control

Rent Control Applies

Boston and Brookline have local rent stabilization measures (post-2023). Cambridge repealed rent control in 1994.

Electronic Signatures

U.S. ESIGN Act (15 U.S.C. §7001) + state UETA adoption

Electronic signatures on leases and notices are valid in Massachusetts. Generate and e-sign a form →

Governing Statute

Massachusetts General Laws Ch. 186 (Landlord and Tenant) + Ch. 239 (Summary Process)

Read the full statute →

This tool provides legal information, not legal advice. Nothing on this site creates an attorney-client relationship. For advice about your specific situation, consult a licensed attorney in your state.