Massachusetts COVID-19 Eviction Protections for Renters

If you're a renter in Massachusetts, it’s important to know how COVID-19 has impacted eviction rules, and what protections remain in place as of this year. While statewide moratoriums have ended, several safeguards and programs still offer support for tenants facing eviction or hardship due to the pandemic. Understanding your rights—and acting quickly if you receive an eviction notice—can help you stay in your home.

COVID-19-Related Eviction Protections Still Available

Although the state’s comprehensive eviction moratorium expired in October 2020, Massachusetts still provides important protections for renters who have faced financial difficulty because of COVID-19. Some federal and state resources remain, offering guidance and support to help avoid displacement. Here’s a summary of key protections you may still have:

• Requirement for Notice to Quit: Landlords must give a “Notice to Quit” before filing an eviction case, with at least 14 days’ notice for nonpayment of rent.
• Right to Apply for Rental Assistance: If you receive a Notice to Quit for nonpayment, you can apply for state rental assistance programs. Filing an application can delay the eviction process.
  See: Rent Relief During COVID-19 (Mass.gov)
• Extended Court Process: If you have a pending rental assistance application, courts must pause your eviction case for up to 60 days while your application is reviewed.

Massachusetts Legislation and the Tribunal for Residential Tenancies

Evictions and tenant-landlord disputes in Massachusetts are managed by the Massachusetts Housing Court. The primary law that governs rental housing is the Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 186 – Estates for Years and At Will.¹ Additional COVID-19 protections and guidance come from recent state acts and court rules.

Official Forms Renters Should Know

• Form: Notice to Quit (No official form number)
  When to use: You may receive this from your landlord before any eviction action begins. If you receive one, don’t ignore it; seek legal help or apply for rental assistance immediately.
  Learn more about Notice to Quit (Mass.gov)
• Form: Affidavit of Compliance with Notice to Quit Requirements
  When to use: Courts require landlords to file this form before they can proceed with certain eviction cases. Renters can review this if there is a question about whether all notice requirements were met.
  Download Affidavit of Compliance
• Form: Application for Rental Assistance (RAFT)
  When to use: If you are behind on rent due to COVID-19, apply as soon as you receive a Notice to Quit. The application process can temporarily pause eviction proceedings.
  Apply for RAFT (Mass.gov)

Key Steps If You Receive an Eviction Notice

Act fast if you are threatened with eviction. Here’s what to do:

• Read any Notice to Quit carefully and note deadlines.
• Apply for rental assistance right away. Submit proof to the Housing Court if you have a pending application.
• Contact free legal aid or mediation services promptly.
• Attend all Housing Court dates and bring documentation, including proof of any rental assistance application.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are eviction moratoriums still active in Massachusetts?
   While the original moratorium has expired, Some COVID-19 protections remain, such as required notice periods and rights to apply for rental assistance that can delay evictions.
2. Can my landlord evict me for nonpayment of rent if I lost income due to COVID-19?
   Your landlord must still give notice, and you can apply for state rental assistance, which can pause the eviction process while your application is considered.
3. What if I get a Notice to Quit?
   Do not ignore it. Apply for rental assistance and seek legal help as soon as possible.
4. What court handles eviction cases in Massachusetts?
   The Massachusetts Housing Court handles residential eviction cases.
5. How long can my eviction be delayed if I apply for rental aid?
   The court can pause your case for up to 60 days while your application for aid is processed.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• Massachusetts requires landlords to provide notice and follow legal procedures for evictions.
• Applying for rental assistance can give you more time to resolve your situation and delay eviction actions.
• Always seek legal help if you receive an eviction notice—many free resources are available.

Knowing your rights and responding promptly can help you stay in your home.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Massachusetts Housing Court – Information on eviction, mediation, and court hearings.
• Eviction Diversion Initiative – Free legal help, rental assistance, and mediation services.
• Apply for RAFT Rental Assistance Program
• Free Legal Help for Tenants (Mass.gov)

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1. Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 186 – Estates for Years and At Will
2. Rent Relief During COVID-19 (Mass.gov)
3. Eviction Notices and Required Forms
4. Massachusetts Housing Court

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