Just Cause Eviction: Lowell vs Waltham
How do just cause eviction rules compare between Lowell, MA and Waltham, MA?
Lowell and Waltham 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 →Waltham, MA
Middlesex County
Waltham follows Massachusetts state landlord-tenant law under MGL c.186. The city has no local just-cause eviction ordinance requiring specific grounds for non-renewal of tenancies.
View full Waltham rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Lowell | Waltham |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Local Ordinance | - | None - state law governs |
| Notice to Quit (Nonpayment) | - | 14 days |
| No-Fault TAW Notice | - | 30 days or one rental period |
| Court | - | Middlesex Housing Court |
| State Law | - | MGL c.186, c.239 |
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.
Waltham FAQ
Does Waltham require just cause for eviction?
No. Waltham has no just-cause eviction ordinance. Landlords follow Massachusetts state law under MGL c.186 and c.239.
Where do I fight an eviction?
Middlesex Housing Court in Lowell hears Waltham eviction cases. MetroWest Legal Services provides free assistance to income-eligible tenants.
Compare other topics
See how Lowell and Waltham compare on other ordinance categories.
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