Newton vs Somerville
How do just cause eviction rules compare between Newton, MA and Somerville, MA?
Newton and Somerville have similar restriction levels.
Newton, MA
Middlesex County
Newton follows Massachusetts state law for evictions. No local just-cause ordinance exists, but MGL c.186 and c.239 govern landlord-tenant relationships and eviction procedures in Newton.
View full Newton 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 | Newton | Somerville |
|---|---|---|
| Local Ordinance | None - state law applies | - |
| Notice to Quit (nonpayment) | 14 days minimum | - |
| No-fault Notice | 30 days or rental period | - |
| Court | Eastern Housing Court | - |
| Self-help Eviction | Illegal under MGL c.184 s.18 | - |
| 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.
Newton FAQ
Does Newton have rent control or just-cause eviction?
No. MGL c.40P prohibits rent control statewide, and Newton has not adopted any local just-cause eviction ordinance. State landlord-tenant law governs.
How much notice must a landlord give before eviction?
14 days for nonpayment of rent; 30 days or one full rental period for termination without cause on a tenancy-at-will.
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
See how Newton and Somerville compare on other ordinance categories.
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