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Tenant Rights and Responsibilities
Last updated: 5/6/26
Tenant Rights and Responsibilities
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What you need to do as a tenant
Your rights as a tenant
Cross-metering
Contact Us
There are certain rules that landlords and tenants need to follow to meet City housing codes. Here’s what you need to know.
Still have questions? Contact:
Inspectional Services
617-635-5300
send an email
1010 Massachusetts Avenue
5th Floor
Boston, MA
02118
United States
Notice of Accommodation
Notice of Accommodation
What you need to do as a tenant
The Rental Ordinance requires property owners with rental property to register the property. The property will be selected for inspection once every five years.
Landlords can protect themselves with security deposits, and tenant screening.
Violating housing codes
A landlord has the right to file a complaint against you if you violate housing codes including:
not giving them access to make repairs
not handling your trash
having a rodent or insect infestation
not taking care of your apartment, or
causing damage to structural areas.
Your rights as a tenant
You can file a complaint with our department if your landlord isn't meeting housing codes. We suggest you speak with them first to try and fix the situation, but you don't have to.