Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Massachusetts
no payment of rent
HELLO,
I have a building that I rented out for a small business. It has been six months since I have received rent payment. The renter has not been in the building. The electricity is still on. I do not have his home address, he moved. I do not have a home phone. The business has an answering machine. His machines are in the building. I have left letters in his mailbox for him to contact me, he has not. How long do I have to wait before I can change the locks? I would like to rent out the building to a paying tenant. He has abandoned the business it seems to me. He owes me 6 months back rent. What can I do at this point????
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: no payment of rent
This is not unheard of; the law is clear on this issue and the solutions are simple. Please answer these questions by e-mail ([email protected]) or telephone ( (617) 527-0050 ) and I will be able to give you instructions.
What city or town is the property in?
Was there a commercial lease?
Meanwhile, do not fret.
Re: no payment of rent
In Massachusetts, self help eviction is a crime. You need a court order to evict. The procedure requires a termination of the tenancy, service of a court complaint and summons, and a court date. You probably should consult an attorney to assist you.