Can a landlord refuse to rent to me because I'm over 55?

No. Massachusetts and federal laws prohibit landlords from discriminating based on age, except in designated senior housing.

Do I have extra rights against being evicted in senior housing?

Yes. Seniors in public or subsidized senior housing are protected against eviction without a valid legal reason.

How do I request changes for my disability?

You can submit a Request for Reasonable Accommodation form to your landlord or housing authority.

What if my rent goes up and I can't afford it?

Most public and subsidized senior housing limits rent increases. In private rentals, your landlord must give proper notice—seek help if needed.

Where do I bring complaints about unfair treatment?

For discrimination complaints, contact the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD); for other housing disputes, use Housing Court.

Massachusetts Senior Housing Laws: Key Protections for Renters

Special Housing Types & Situations Massachusetts published June 21, 2025

Understanding senior housing protections can help Massachusetts renters aged 55 and older feel secure and respected in their homes. Massachusetts law offers specific rights and resources for seniors in rental housing, from limits on eviction to anti-discrimination rules. This guide explains these protections in plain English, with links to official resources and forms to help you take action if needed.

What Qualifies as Senior Housing?

In Massachusetts, "senior housing" typically refers to residential properties or communities designed exclusively for older adults—usually those aged 55+ or 62+, based on federal and state law. These buildings or units may have special services, accessibility features, and age restrictions.

55+ communities: At least one resident in 80% of the units must be 55 or older.
62+ communities: All residents must be 62 or older.
Many senior apartments, public or subsidized housing, and private complexes qualify.

Core Rights for Massachusetts Senior Renters

Senior renters are protected under both general landlord-tenant law and special rules for age-based housing. Key protections include:

Anti-Discrimination: Landlords cannot refuse to rent, renew, or provide reasonable accommodations simply due to age or receipt of public assistance.
Fair Eviction Standards: Seniors in certain housing types—like publicly funded senior housing—can only be evicted for just cause (good legal reasons).
Reasonable Accommodations: Tenants with disabilities (including age-related needs) can request reasonable changes to policies or physical space.
Rent Increase Protections: While private landlords can raise rent with proper notice, many subsidized and public senior housings have controlled or limited increases.

These rules are enforced under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 151B (see the full Fair Housing Law), the Massachusetts Anti-Discrimination Law, and the Federal Fair Housing Act.

Senior Protections Against Eviction

Massachusetts law provides special rules for evicting seniors—especially those living in public or subsidized senior housing, like state-aided elderly/disabled units. In these settings:

Eviction is allowed only for good cause (e.g., non-payment, lease violations, dangerous behavior)
Additional notice and support may be required before beginning eviction proceedings
You may be able to challenge an eviction or seek emergency assistance

Official Forms Massachusetts Senior Renters Should Know

“Request for Reasonable Accommodation” (DHCD Form)
When and how to use: If you are a senior with a disability (including mobility, hearing, or vision) and need changes to your rental unit or building policies, submit this form to your landlord or housing authority.
Download the Request for Reasonable Accommodation Form (Mass.gov)
“Notice to Quit” – Eviction Response Forms
When and how to use: If you receive an eviction notice (Notice to Quit), act quickly. You can respond with the Summary Process Answer Form to explain your situation and assert your rights, such as reasons for non-payment or requests for accommodation.
Download the Summary Process Answer Form (Trial Court)
Civil Rights Complaint Forms
When and how to use: If you face discrimination based on age, disability, or source of income, file a complaint with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD).
How to File a Discrimination Complaint (MCAD)

Where to Turn for Housing Disputes

Residential Landlord-Tenant Disputes: The Massachusetts Housing Court handles tenancy and eviction cases statewide.
Discrimination Complaints: File with Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD).

If you’re facing a rent increase or possible eviction, act quickly—deadlines can be short! Seek free advice from agencies (see resources below) or review Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 186 for basic landlord-tenant rules.

Tip for renters: If you have a disability or health issue tied to your housing needs, always request accommodation in writing and keep copies for your records.

Frequently Asked Questions for Senior Renters

Can a landlord refuse to rent to me because I'm over 55?
No. Under Massachusetts and federal law, it is illegal to discriminate against tenants due to age or receipt of public assistance. The only exception is in designated senior housing communities set up specifically for older adults.
Do I have extra rights against being evicted in senior housing?
Yes. Seniors living in public or subsidized senior housing have "just cause" eviction protections, meaning they can't be evicted without a valid legal reason such as non-payment, lease violations, or endangerment to others.
How do I request changes for my disability?
Submit the Request for Reasonable Accommodation form to your landlord or property manager. Explain what you need (like grab bars, service animal permission, or notification changes).
What if my rent goes up and I can't afford it?
In government-assisted housing, there are limits on rent increases. In private housing, your landlord must give proper notice (usually at least 30 days). Seek help from legal services or the Housing Court if you need support.
Where do I bring complaints about unfair treatment?
You may file complaints with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD) for discrimination, and the Housing Court for general housing disputes.

Key Takeaways for Senior Renters

Massachusetts law gives seniors strong protections against discrimination and unfair eviction.
Specific forms help you request reasonable accommodations or respond to eviction notices.
State agencies and courts support renters facing housing disputes—don’t hesitate to reach out for help.

Staying informed about your rights helps you make confident decisions and address problems early.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Massachusetts Housing Court – Handles all residential tenancy and eviction cases.
Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD) – For discrimination concerns or complaints.
Massachusetts Legal Assistance – Free advice for low-income renters, seniors, and those in need.
Executive Office of Elder Affairs – Senior Housing Info
Mass.gov Housing Portal – Official state resource for all renter issues.