Massachusetts Lockouts and utility shutoffs

Can a landlord change the locks or shut off utilities in Massachusetts?

Removing or excluding a tenant without a court order lets the tenant recover possession or end the lease, plus three months' rent or treble damages and attorney's fees. Willfully failing to provide required utilities or services,, is a crime and makes the landlord liable for actual and consequential damages or three months' rent, whichever is greater.

Verified Source: M.G.L. c. 186, §§ 15F, 14 · last checked 2026-10-15