Massachusetts Retaliation protections

Is landlord retaliation illegal in Massachusetts?

Landlords may not retaliate against tenants for enforcing housing laws, reporting violations, or organizing or joining a tenants' union. A notice to quit, rent increase or other adverse action within 6 months after such activity is presumed retaliatory, and the landlord can rebut that only by clear and convincing evidence.

Verified Source: M.G.L. c. 186, § 18 · last checked 2026-10-15