How to File a Landlord Complaint in Massachusetts

If you’re a renter in Massachusetts facing issues like neglected repairs, unlawful eviction threats, or improper rent increases, knowing how to file a complaint against your landlord can help protect your rights. The process is designed to ensure both tenants and landlords follow Massachusetts laws, and renters can turn to official agencies for support throughout the process.

Understanding Tenant Rights in Massachusetts

Massachusetts offers strong legal protections for residential tenants under the Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 186 and related housing regulations. These laws give renters the right to safe, habitable housing, protection from retaliation, and set procedures for rent increases and eviction.

When Should You File a Complaint?

Consider filing a complaint if you are experiencing any of the following:

• Unsafe or unhealthy living conditions (mold, no heat, pests, etc.)
• Repeated failure by your landlord to make repairs
• Improper notice or process for eviction
• Illegal rent increases or fee charges
• Discrimination or harassment

Before starting a formal complaint, it’s best to notify your landlord in writing about the issue and allow reasonable time for them to address it.

Step-by-Step: Filing a Complaint in Massachusetts

These steps explain how to formally address unresolved problems with your landlord.

1. Contact Your Local Board of Health

For health and safety concerns, your first action should be to contact your city or town’s Board of Health. They have authority to inspect rental properties for code violations.

• Find your local Board of Health using the Massachusetts Department of Public Health directory.
• If unsafe conditions are found, they will issue an order for your landlord to make necessary repairs.

2. Use the Official Inspection Request Form

Usually, you must file a request or complaint with your local authority. In Boston, for example, you can use the Boston Housing Complaint Form to start the inspection process. Other cities and towns have similar forms—search your municipality's website for specifics.

• Form Name: Housing Complaint/Inspection Request (form names may differ by town)
• When to use: If your apartment is unsafe, unlivable, or needs repairs your landlord will not address after written notice.
• How to use: Submit to your city/town’s Board of Health or Inspectional Services office. For example, in Boston, fill out the online complaint form.

3. Filing with the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office

If your landlord is violating your rights—such as discrimination, retaliatory actions, or harassment—you can file a complaint through the Consumer Complaint Form of the Massachusetts Attorney General's Office.

• Form Name: Consumer Complaint Form
• When to use: If your landlord is acting unlawfully (retaliation, discrimination, illegal deposit withholdings, etc.).
• How to use: Submit the form online or by mail. Detailed instructions are included on the form’s page.

4. Discrimination Complaints

If you believe you are being discriminated against based on race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, or disability, you can file a complaint with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD).

• Form Name: MCAD Intake Questionnaire
• When to use: If your landlord treats you unfairly based on a protected class.
• How to use: Start with the online intake process and MCAD will contact you for more details.

5. Filing in Housing Court

If problems persist or you’re facing an illegal eviction, you may need to take your issue to the Massachusetts Housing Court. The court provides a forum for tenants and landlords to resolve disputes under state law.

• Form Name: Complaint Form for Housing Court (varies by specific case)
• When to use: As a last resort, for serious issues not resolved by other complaint processes.
• How to use: Call or visit your local Housing Court, or consult their official forms list.

What Happens After You File?

After submitting a complaint:

• Housing or health officials may inspect your unit and order repairs if violations are found.
• You may be contacted for more information or to provide documentation.
• Depending on the outcome, further action may include mediation, court proceedings, or enforcement against the landlord.

For most issues, a written record, prompt follow-up, and using official channels help protect your rights.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I be evicted for filing a complaint against my landlord?
   No. Massachusetts law protects tenants from retaliation for making legitimate complaints. Your landlord cannot lawfully evict you or increase rent solely because you exercised your rights.
   
2. How quickly will the Board of Health inspect my rental?
   Inspections typically occur within a week after your complaint, but timelines can vary depending on local resources and the seriousness of your concern.
   
3. What if my landlord does not respond to ordered repairs?
   If your landlord ignores an official order from the Board of Health, the city or town can take enforcement action. You may also have grounds to withhold rent or seek remedy in Housing Court.
   
4. Do I need a lawyer to file a complaint?
   No. Most complaint processes are designed to be accessible for renters. However, consulting with legal aid or a tenants’ association can be helpful if your case is complex.
   
5. What laws protect me as a tenant in Massachusetts?
   The main tenant protections are under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 186 and associated housing regulations.
   

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Massachusetts Renters

• File complaints with your local Board of Health or the Attorney General for unsafe conditions or rights violations.
• Use official forms and keep thorough documentation of all issues and communications.
• Massachusetts law provides robust protections—do not hesitate to use official resources if you need help.

Remember, prompt action and knowledge of your rights can make a significant difference when dealing with landlord disputes.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Massachusetts Housing Court: Handles disputes and evictions under state law
• Massachusetts Tenants’ Rights Page: Official state overview of tenant protections
• Attorney General’s Office: Consumer complaint form and legal enforcement
• Directory of Local Boards of Health: File housing complaints about conditions
• Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD): File discrimination complaints

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1. Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 186 - Landlord and Tenant
2. Massachusetts Housing Court – Official Portal
3. Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office – Consumer Complaint Form
4. Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination – File a Complaint
5. Massachusetts State – Tenants’ Rights and Protections

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