Just Cause Eviction: Somerville vs Waltham
How do just cause eviction rules compare between Somerville, MA and Waltham, MA?
Waltham has fewer restrictions than Somerville.
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 →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 | Somerville | Waltham |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| 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.
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.
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 Somerville and Waltham compare on other ordinance categories.
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