Massachusetts Landlord-Tenant Laws
Complete 2026 guide to Massachusetts landlord laws — security deposits, eviction process, entry notice, and rent control status.
Landlord Score
2
out of 10
Tenant Friendly
Key Law Summary — Massachusetts
🏦
Security Deposit Max
1 month
📋
Eviction Notice
14 days (pay or quit)
⚡
Avg Eviction Timeline
90 days
🚪
Entry Notice Required
24 hours
💰
Late Fee Cap
None
⚖
Eviction Filing Fee
$180–$240
🏘️
Rent Control
None
❄️
Winter Eviction Ban
No
✅ Landlord Rights in Massachusetts
→Can recover holdover damages
⚖ Tenant Rights in Massachusetts
→14-day notice for non-payment
→Right to jury trial
📋 Required Disclosures
✓ Lead paint
✓ Statement of condition
✓ Utility info
⚡ Eviction Timeline — Massachusetts
1
Serve Notice
14-day notice to pay or quit
2
Wait Period
Allow 14 days for tenant to comply
3
File Complaint
File at court — fee: $180–$240
4
Court Hearing
Attend hearing with documentation
5
Judgment & Writ
Total avg: 90 days start to finish
Local Court Resources
At a Glance
Landlord Score2/10
Eviction Avg90 days
Notice Period14 days
Entry Notice24hr