Newton vs Waltham
How do just cause eviction rules compare between Newton, MA and Waltham, MA?
Waltham has fewer restrictions than Newton.
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 →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 | Newton | Waltham |
|---|---|---|
| Local Ordinance | None - state law applies | None - state law governs |
| Notice to Quit (nonpayment) | 14 days minimum | - |
| No-fault Notice | 30 days or rental period | - |
| Court | Eastern Housing Court | Middlesex Housing Court |
| Self-help Eviction | Illegal under MGL c.184 s.18 | - |
| Notice to Quit (Nonpayment) | - | 14 days |
| No-Fault TAW Notice | - | 30 days or one rental period |
| State Law | - | MGL c.186, c.239 |
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.
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 Newton and Waltham compare on other ordinance categories.
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