Massachusetts Rent withholding / escrow

Can a tenant withhold rent for repairs in Massachusetts?

In an eviction for nonpayment or a no-fault termination, the tenant may raise claims over the condition of the unit (breach of warranty, lease or law) as a defense or counterclaim, including the difference between the rent and the unit's fair value. For condition claims, the landlord must have known of the problem before the tenant fell behind.

Verified Source: M.G.L. c. 239, § 8A · last checked 2026-10-15