If you are dealing with a negligent landlord, facing eviction, or simply trying to understand your rights, this guide explains the key protections and rules every Boston renter should know.
Emergency Contacts
Your Right to Repairs
Under the Massachusetts State Sanitary Code, landlords are legally required to keep rental units in a condition "fit for human habitation." To meet this requirement, landlords must provide and maintain the following:
Heat
Hot Water
Pest-Free
Electricity & Water
Safety
Structure
How to Get Repairs Done
- Notify your landlord in writing — Report the issue through a portal, email, or letter. Always keep copies.
- Give a reasonable time to respond — Landlords should address emergencies within 24 hours.
- Contact Boston Inspectional Services — If they don't respond, call (617) 635-4500 for an official city inspection.
- Document everything — Take photos/videos and keep records of all communication.
- Consider rent withholding — This is a serious legal step for major violations. (See below).
Rent Withholding (Escrow)
Legal Requirements for Withholding
Warning: Eviction RiskRent withholding is legally risky. If procedures aren't followed exactly, a landlord may attempt eviction for nonpayment. Speak with a tenant advocacy group before taking this step.
Heat & Hot Water Laws
Boston winters are harsh, and heat is not optional. Massachusetts law requires landlords to provide adequate heat and hot water.
- Heating season: September 15 – May 31
- Legal Temperature: 68°F (Day) / 64°F (Night)
- Hot Water: 110°F – 130°F year-round
Your Right to a Pest-Free Home
Under the Massachusetts State Sanitary Code, landlords are responsible for maintaining properties free from rodent and insect infestations.
- Rodents (Rats/Mice): Landlords must arrange extermination and seal entry points.
- Cockroaches/Insects: Multi-unit buildings often require building-wide treatment.
- Bedbugs: Landlords are generally responsible for professional treatment.
Eviction Protections
If Your Landlord Locks You Out:
- Call 911 — Illegal lockouts are prohibited and police may help restore access.
- File a police report — This creates essential legal documentation.
- Go to Housing Court — Request emergency relief to restore access.
- Document everything — Take photos of changed locks and witness statements.
You may be entitled to damages equal to 3 months’ rent plus attorney’s fees.
The Eviction Process
The landlord must give written notice (usually 14 or 30 days). This is not an eviction order.
If you don't move, the landlord files a court case.
You have the right to defend yourself in front of a judge.
Only a judge can authorize an eviction.
If the landlord wins, a sheriff (never the landlord) physically removes you.
Need Help?City Life / Vida Urbana offers advocacy and support for tenants facing eviction: (617) 227-4878
Security Deposit Rights
Massachusetts has some of the strictest security deposit laws in the country.
- Maximum Deposit: Exactly one month's rent.
- Separate Account: Must be held in a separate, interest-bearing MA bank account.
- Receipt Required: Landlord must provide bank details within 30 days.
- Return Timeline: Must be returned within 30 days of move-out.
- Itemized Deductions: Must include receipts/estimates for any withheld funds.
Where to File Complaints
Housing code violations, repairs, heat complaints. Call (617) 635-4500 or 311
File a complaint to force repairs, fight eviction, or recover damages.
Housing discrimination complaints. File at mass.gov/ago
Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination for housing discrimination
Free Legal Help
- City Life / Vida Urbana: (617) 227-4878 — Tenant organizing and advocacy.
- Greater Boston Legal Services: (617) 371-1234 — Free legal help for low-income tenants.
- Massachusetts Law Reform Institute: Tenant resources and legal guides.
- Housing Court Help Centers: Free assistance available at Housing Court locations.