Just Cause Eviction: Ayer vs Somerville
How do just cause eviction rules compare between Ayer, MA and Somerville, MA?
Ayer has fewer restrictions than Somerville.
Ayer, MA
Middlesex County
Massachusetts has no statewide just cause eviction law. Landlords may terminate tenancies at-will with 30 days notice under MGL c.186 s.12 for any non-discriminatory reason.
View full Ayer rules →Somerville, MA
Middlesex County
Massachusetts state law governs evictions in Somerville. MGL c.186 and c.239 set notice requirements. Somerville has adopted tenant-protection measures but cannot impose rent control under MGL c.40P.
View full Somerville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Ayer | Somerville |
|---|---|---|
| Statewide Just Cause | Does not exist | - |
| Notice to Quit | MGL c.186 s.12 (30 days) | - |
| Non-Payment | MGL c.186 s.11 (14 days) | - |
| Retaliation Ban | MGL c.186 s.18 | - |
| Fair Housing | MGL c.151B | - |
| State law | - | MGL c.186 and c.239 |
| Rent control | - | Prohibited by MGL c.40P |
| Nonpayment notice | - | 14 days |
| No-fault notice | - | 30 days minimum |
| Tenant help | - | Office of Housing Stability |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Ayer FAQ
Can my landlord evict me without a reason?
If you are a tenant at-will yes, with 30 days written notice under MGL c.186 s.12. However the reason cannot be discriminatory or retaliatory. Fixed-term leases must run to expiration.
Does Cambridge have a just cause eviction law?
No. Cambridge has considered one but no home-rule ordinance is currently in effect for private market-rate rentals.
Somerville FAQ
Can Somerville stop my landlord from evicting me without cause?
Not under current state law. MGL c.40P prevents municipalities from imposing rent control or broad just-cause eviction rules. Tenants at will can receive a 30-day no-fault termination.
Where can I get help with an eviction notice?
Contact the Somerville Office of Housing Stability and Greater Boston Legal Services. The court process requires landlords to file in Housing Court.
Compare other topics
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