Just Cause Eviction: Lowell vs Wakefield
How do just cause eviction rules compare between Lowell, MA and Wakefield, MA?
Lowell and Wakefield have similar restriction levels.
Lowell, MA
Middlesex County
Lowell has no local just-cause eviction ordinance. Landlord-tenant evictions follow Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 239 and Chapter 186 procedures.
View full Lowell rules →Wakefield, 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 Wakefield rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Lowell | Wakefield |
|---|---|---|
| Local Just Cause Law | None in Lowell | - |
| Governing Statute | MGL c.239 and c.186 | - |
| Nonpayment Notice | 14 days | - |
| No-Fault Notice | 30 days or rental period | - |
| Forum | Northeast Housing Court | - |
| 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 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Lowell FAQ
Can Lowell adopt just-cause eviction?
Not without state legislation. MGL c.40P preempts local rent and eviction controls.
What notice is required for nonpayment?
A 14-day notice to quit under MGL c.186 s.11 before summary process can be filed.
Wakefield 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.
Compare other topics
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