Behind on the rent? Talk to your landlord about creating a repayment plan.
Did you break the terms of your lease? Explain to your landlord how you plan to resolve it.
Is your landlord proposing a rent increase you can’t afford? Ask if they will take a smaller increase. You should also ask for a lease so that your rent will not increase again during the lease period.
If your landlord is selling or renovating? Try to negotiate an agreement that gives you enough time and resources to move out.
KEEP COPIES OF IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS
Your lease agreement and any addendum
Rent receipts
Security deposit receipts
written communications with your landlord
If you’ve already received an eviction notice
The eviction process begins when a landlord serves you a legal document called a Notice to Quit (Eviction Notice). For more detailed information on how to legally respond to an eviction notice, and the possible court proceedings, visit our eviction process overview page.
Learn about the eviction process
Get Legal Help
Each week, the Office of Housing Stability hosts a virtual legal clinic for small landlords and tenants.
Register for a Virtual Legal Clinic
Greater Boston Legal Services
Free civil legal aid to low-income people in Boston.
617-371-1234
Harvard Legal Aid Bureau
Legal services program for those with low incomes in the Boston area.
617-495-4408
Mass Legal Help
Get practical information about your legal rights in Massachusetts.
Massachusetts Bar Association Lawyer Referral Program
Get lawyer referral services and information at Housing Court.
617-654-0400
Volunteer Lawyer’s Project
They offer eviction help for tenants and owner-occupied landlords.
617-603-1700
Services for the Homeless