Free Massachusetts Eviction Notice Template

A Massachusetts eviction notice—often called a “notice to quit”—is a written warning landlords must give tenants before starting an eviction case, known as Summary Process. It explains why the tenancy is ending, how much time the tenant has to fix the problem or move, and follows the deadlines set in Massachusetts General Laws chapter 186 and 239.

Massachusetts landlords must issue the correct notice before filing in Housing or District Court:

• 14-Day Notice to Quit for Non-Payment (MA Gen L ch 186 § 11): Used when tenants fall behind on rent. If the tenant pays in full within 10 days, the tenancy continues. Additionally, a tenant may cure by paying the full rent owed plus court costs at any time before their answer is due in the eviction case, in which case the proceeding must be dismissed.
• Notice to Quit for Lease Violations: For issues like unauthorized occupants, illegal activity, or property damage. While state law doesn’t set a firm timeline, 30 days or one rental period is common practice.
• 30-Day Notice to Quit for Tenancy at Will (MA Gen L ch 186 § 12): Ends a month-to-month tenancy without requiring a lease violation or “just cause.”

Here’s what to include when drafting your notice:

1. Names of landlord and tenant plus rental property address
2. Reason for ending the tenancy, if required by law
3. Exact deadline for payment, compliance, or move-out
4. Date the notice was prepared and signed
5. Landlord’s signature and contact information

Under Massachusetts law, notices can be delivered by:

• Personal delivery to the tenant
• Leaving it with a suitable adult at the rental property
• Posting it at the unit and mailing a copy via first-class or certified mail

Keep a copy and proof of service for the court case.

If the tenant doesn’t comply within the time allowed:

• File a Summary Process Summons and Complaint in Housing Court or District Court
• The court sets a trial date and serves the tenant with the case details
• If the landlord wins, the court issues an Execution for Possession, allowing the sheriff or constable to remove the tenant after the 10-day appeal period ends

Landlords may need these forms during the eviction process:

• Summary Process Summons and Complaint: Starts the eviction case
• Summary Process Answer: Used by tenants to respond before trial
• Execution for Possession: Issued after a landlord wins the case so law enforcement can remove the tenant