Mediation for Oregon Landlord-Tenant Disputes: A Renter’s Guide

If you’re a renter in Oregon facing issues like eviction threats, rent increases, or maintenance disputes, you may not want things to escalate to court. Mediation offers a supportive way to resolve conflicts with your landlord, often saving time and stress while keeping housing concerns out of legal battles. Here’s how mediation works for rental disagreements in Oregon, practical steps you can take, and resources to guide you.

Understanding Mediation in Oregon Landlord-Tenant Disputes

Mediation is a voluntary process where you and your landlord work with a neutral third party (the mediator) to find a solution you both accept. It’s private, less formal than court, and often much quicker. Many counties and courts in Oregon offer free or low-cost mediation for renters and landlords experiencing housing disputes.

What Can Mediation Help With?

• Disagreements about repairs and needed maintenance
• Questions about rent increases
• Communication or interpersonal conflicts
• Concerns about security deposit returns
• Eviction or lease termination disputes

Most cases are resolved within a single session, and decisions are guided by Oregon’s rental laws and your rental agreement.

How the Mediation Process Works

Here’s what you can expect if you decide to use mediation in Oregon:

• Initiate mediation: Either you or your landlord can request mediation, often through your local county community dispute resolution center or, if you’ve received an eviction notice, through the court when a landlord files for eviction.
• Initial contact: The mediation provider contacts both parties to schedule a session.
• Mediation session: You and your landlord discuss the issue with a mediator present, aiming to find common ground.
• Agreements: Any agreement you reach can be put in writing. If either party doesn’t follow it, you may still seek formal legal help.

Official Forms and Documents

While there is no single statewide ‘mediation request form’ for renters, some situations may involve official notices or court forms, especially if your dispute is already part of an eviction proceeding.

• FED (Forcible Entry and Detainer) Summons and Complaint: Used when a landlord files for eviction in court. You may use this opportunity to request mediation at your first court appearance.
  Example: If your landlord files for eviction, you’ll receive a Summons and Complaint. At your court appearance, you can request mediation through the county circuit court.
  Oregon Eviction Court Forms
• Notice of Mediation Availability: In Multnomah County and some other regions, you may receive this with your eviction paperwork, letting you know mediation is an option.
  Multnomah County Eviction Court Mediation

If you’re facing a serious dispute, check your local dispute resolution center for neighborhood-specific programs and any required forms.

Key Steps for Renters: How to Request Mediation

• Identify your local community dispute resolution center or check the court paperwork for mediation info
• Contact the mediation program by phone or online to request a session
• Prepare all documents and written communication relevant to your dispute
• Participate in the mediation session, either in person or by phone/video
• Document any agreement reached for your records

Find your dispute resolution center using the Oregon Office for Community Dispute Resolution's directory.

Which Agency Handles Oregon Residential Tenancies?

In Oregon, landlord-tenant disputes are handled mainly through county circuit courts. If you have a legal case, it’s usually filed in Oregon Circuit Courts. Community mediation centers are not courts, but they work closely with them to provide alternatives to litigation.

The main state law for renters is the Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (ORS Chapter 90).¹

FAQ: Mediation for Renters in Oregon

1. Is mediation required before going to court for tenant disputes in Oregon?
   Mediation is not legally required, but many courts encourage it and provide access to mediators, especially in eviction cases.
2. Does mediation stop an eviction in progress?
   No, mediation does not legally pause an eviction, but if both parties reach an agreement, the eviction case may be dismissed.
3. Do I need a lawyer to participate in mediation?
   No, you do not need a lawyer, but you may consult one if you want legal advice before or after mediation.
4. Is the mediation agreement legally binding?
   If both parties agree and sign, it’s treated like a contract. If someone breaks it, you may need to go to court to enforce it.
5. Are there fees for mediation?
   Most community mediation programs for housing disputes are free or have a sliding scale based on your income.

Conclusion: What Renters Should Remember

• Mediation is a confidential, flexible way to resolve many landlord-tenant issues in Oregon.
• Renters can request mediation through local centers or the court, especially during eviction proceedings.
• Check Oregon’s official mediation programs and the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act for your rights and options.

Mediation is often faster and less stressful than going to court—and you don’t give up your right to seek legal help later.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Oregon Mediation Centers Directory
• Oregon Circuit Courts – Eviction Information
• Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (ORS Chapter 90)
• Oregon Law Center – Free Legal Help
• Oregon State Bar Referral Service

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1. Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (ORS Chapter 90)

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