Massachusetts Tenant Rights: Domestic Violence Protections

Renters in Massachusetts who have experienced domestic violence are protected under specific state laws. These laws help tenants break a lease early, request new locks, or stop landlords from retaliating because of the situation. If you or someone in your household is experiencing abuse, knowing your rental rights can provide essential safety and peace of mind.

Understanding Your Rights as a Renter Facing Domestic Violence

Massachusetts state law ensures that tenants who are victims of domestic violence, rape, sexual assault, or stalking have certain legal protections. These are designed to support your right to safety at home—without the risk of unfair eviction or further harm.

• You have the right to end your lease early if you fear imminent harm.
• Landlords must change your locks within two days of a request.
• You cannot be discriminated against or evicted solely because you are a survivor of domestic violence.

Which Law Applies?

The key law protecting renters is Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 186, Section 24 and 25, covering domestic violence protections in rental housing¹.

Key Security Protections for Survivors

Here's a summary of what the law covers for renters in these difficult situations.

Your Right to Early Lease Termination

• You may end your rental agreement early if staying in your home would threaten your or your child’s safety.
• You must notify your landlord in writing (see official form details below) and provide documentation, such as a restraining order or a police report.
• After receiving your notice, your landlord cannot charge you rent beyond the next full rental period (up to 30 days).

Requesting a Lock Change

• After written request and documentation, your landlord must change your locks within two business days.
• Only you and others you authorize may receive new keys, protecting you from further harm.

Official Forms for Massachusetts Tenants

• Notice to Quit Lease Due to Domestic Violence, Rape, Sexual Assault, or Stalking (No form number)
  When to use: Use this written notice when you need to terminate your lease early because you fear for your safety.
  How to use: Write to your landlord stating your intention to break the lease, attach required documentation (such as a copy of a restraining order, police report, or a sworn statement from a medical or legal professional), and keep a copy for your records.
  Sample domestic violence lease termination letter
• Lock Change Request Letter (No form number)
  When to use: If you request a lock change for safety due to domestic violence.
  How to use: Submit a written request with supporting documentation to your landlord. The landlord must respond within two business days. You can find a sample letter template from legal aid organizations.
  Sample lock change request letter

Official state forms for these protections generally require a written letter with documentation. See linked sample letters for reference.

Who Handles Rental Disputes in Massachusetts?

If you have issues with your landlord surrounding these protections, you can contact the Massachusetts Housing Court, which resolves residential tenancy disputes and enforces tenant rights under state law.

How to Take Action: Steps for Massachusetts Renters

Here’s a concise guide if you need to use your domestic violence protections:

• Gather documentation (such as a police report, court order, or letter from a certified advocate).
• Write a formal notice to your landlord (see sample forms above).
• Submit your documentation and notice to your landlord; for lock changes, specifically ask for a lock replacement.
• If your landlord does not comply, contact the Massachusetts Housing Court or a local legal aid office for assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord evict me for calling the police due to domestic violence?
   No. State law protects renters from eviction or penalties for seeking help or exercising your rights as a survivor.
2. Do I have to give advance notice before ending my lease?
   You must give written notice and include documentation, but you are liable for rent for no more than the next full rental period (up to 30 days) after notice.
3. Is my information confidential if I request a lock change?
   Yes. Landlords may not share your information except for limited reasons outlined in the law.
4. What qualifies as documentation?
   An active restraining order, a police report from within the last 60 days, or a letter from a professional advocate or clinician.
5. What should I do if my landlord refuses to change the locks or let me out of my lease?
   Contact the Massachusetts Housing Court or a certified legal aid organization immediately for help enforcing your rights.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Renters

• Massachusetts tenants who are survivors of domestic violence have strong legal protections under state law.
• You can end your lease early and request a lock change to help ensure your safety.
• Always provide proper notice and documentation, and seek help if your landlord does not comply.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Massachusetts domestic violence programs and services – For immediate safety and advocacy resources.
• Massachusetts Housing Court – For disputes about lease termination and lock changes.
• MassLegalHelp: Domestic Violence and Housing – Step-by-step guidance for renters (government-funded).
• Dial 2-1-1 for access to confidential domestic violence resources statewide.

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1. Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 186, Section 24 & 25: Tenant Protection for Domestic Violence Survivors
2. Massachusetts Housing Court official website
3. State Guidance on Domestic Violence Documentation

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