Rent Control: Cambridge vs Waltham
How do rent control rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Waltham, MA?
Cambridge and Waltham have similar restriction levels.
Cambridge, MA
Middlesex County
Cambridge has NO rent control. Massachusetts banned rent control statewide in 1994 via ballot question codified in MGL c.40P, and Cambridge cannot restore rent control without state legislative action.
View full Cambridge rules →Waltham, MA
Middlesex County
Waltham cannot enact rent control because Massachusetts MGL Chapter 40P (the 1994 voter referendum) prohibits all forms of residential rent control statewide.
View full Waltham rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cambridge | Waltham |
|---|---|---|
| Rent control | Prohibited statewide | - |
| Ban authority | MGL c.40P 1994 | - |
| Effective | January 1, 1995 | - |
| Alternative | Inclusionary zoning, AHO | - |
| Notice for increase | 30 days minimum | - |
| State Prohibition | - | MGL c.40P since 1994 |
| Local Authority | - | None, cannot enact |
| Rent Increases | - | Unlimited subject to lease |
| Subsidy Programs | - | Section 8, public housing only |
| Tenant Help | - | RAFT emergency assistance |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Cambridge FAQ
Does Cambridge have rent control?
No. Massachusetts banned rent control statewide in 1994 via MGL c.40P and Cambridge cannot enforce rent control without state action.
How much notice for a rent increase?
For a tenancy at will, MGL c.186 s.12 requires at least 30 days written notice, or one rental period, whichever is longer.
Waltham FAQ
Does Waltham have rent control?
No. Massachusetts law (MGL c.40P) prohibits all rent control statewide since 1994. Waltham cannot legally adopt any form of rent regulation.
Can my Waltham landlord raise my rent as much as they want?
Yes, at lease renewal, with proper notice (typically 30 days for tenant-at-will). Mid-lease increases are not allowed unless the lease provides for them.
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