Housing Problems in Massachusetts

Under G.L. Chapter 186, Section 15B, Massachusetts landlords must hold your deposit in a separate interest-bearing bank account, provide you with the bank name and account number, and pay you annual interest. The deposit (capped at one month's rent) must be returned within 30 days of move-out. Non-compliance can result in three times the deposit plus attorney fees.

For nonpayment of rent, Massachusetts requires a 14-day notice to pay or quit before the landlord may file a summary process action. For tenancy at will or lease violations, a 30-day notice is typically required. Eviction cases are heard in Housing Court or District Court.

Massachusetts does not have statewide rent control (a 1994 ballot measure eliminated it). However, Boston, Brookline, and Cambridge passed new rent stabilization measures in recent years. These are subject to ongoing legislative and legal developments, so local rules should be verified for your specific location.

Yes. Massachusetts courts have held that landlord conduct that violates the security deposit statute, retaliation prohibitions, or other tenant protections can constitute unfair or deceptive acts under Chapter 93A. Successful Chapter 93A claims may result in multiple damages (up to three times actual damages) plus attorney fees.