Breaking a Lease in Massachusetts
Statute text last checked: October 23, 2026
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Outside the specific statutory rights below, what you owe for leaving a fixed-term lease early depends largely on your lease terms (for example, an early-termination or sublet clause). Read those clauses before giving notice.
Domestic violence, rape, sexual assault or stalking (c.186 §24)
- A tenant or co-tenant may terminate by written notice to the owner that a household member is a victim, if notice is given within 3 months of the most recent act, or a household member is reasonably in fear of imminent serious physical harm.
- The tenant must move out within 3 months of the notice, or the notice is void.
- Rent liability ends 30 days or 1 full rental period after move-out, whichever is later; prepaid rent for later periods is refunded.
- The owner may request proof: a protective order under c.209A or c.258E, a court or law-enforcement record, or written verification from a qualified third party. The owner must keep that documentation confidential.
- The security deposit statement and any refund are due within 30 days after the tenancy ends and full possession is delivered. Other co-tenants on the lease stay bound.
Military service (federal SCRA, 50 U.S.C. §3955)
- Covers a lease signed before entering military service, or signed while in service followed by permanent change of station or deployment orders for at least 90 days.
- Terminate by delivering written notice and a copy of the orders to the landlord.
- For monthly rent, termination takes effect 30 days after the next rent due date following delivery of notice.
- The landlord may not impose an early termination charge; prepaid rent for after termination is refunded within 30 days.
Frequently asked questions
Can I break my lease in Massachusetts because of domestic violence?
Yes. Under M.G.L. c.186 §24, a tenant or co-tenant may terminate by written notice to the owner that a household member is a victim of domestic violence, rape, sexual assault or stalking, if notice is given within 3 months of the most recent act or the household member is reasonably in fear of imminent serious physical harm. The tenant must move out within 3 months of the notice.
How much rent do I owe after ending a lease under c.186 §24?
The tenant is released from rent for the period 30 days or 1 full rental period after the move-out date, whichever is later, and is entitled to a refund of prepaid rent for any period after that. Other co-tenants on the lease are not released.
Can a servicemember break a lease in Massachusetts?
Federal law (50 U.S.C. §3955) lets a servicemember end a residential lease after entering military service, or after receiving permanent change of station or deployment orders of at least 90 days, by giving written notice and a copy of the orders. The landlord may not charge an early termination fee.
Sources
- M.G.L. c.186 § 24 (official text)
- 50 U.S.C. § 3955 (Servicemembers Civil Relief Act) (official text)