State of Massachusetts Resources

Citizen Information Service: Safe and Sanitary Housing

These Highlights of the State Sanitary Code from the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts gives a helpful overview of regulations for landlords and tenants when it comes to maintaining their living space. The purpose of these regulations is to keep residents safe and ensure landlords are providing proper living conditions for renters. 

Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation

The Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation (OCABR) provides extensive resources on renting in Massachusetts, as well as a student guide for living off campus.

MA Consumer Affairs Blog

The Massachusetts Consumer Affairs Blog contains helpful articles on different topics from renting, to student loans, to financial education and safety tips. 

See the highlighted articles below for helpful information:

• Know Your Massachusetts Tenant Rights
• Landlord Rights and Responsibilities
• New Scam Alert: Zelle Payments
• OCABR's Tips When Moving Apartments

Contact

Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation
Phone: (617) 973-8787
501 Boylston St, Suite 5100
Boston, MA, 02116
Office Hours: Monday - Friday, 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Massachusetts Tenant Rights & Responsibilities

• Mass.gov: Massachusetts Law About Landlord and Tenant
  Learn about laws, regulations, cases, and web sources on general landlord and tenant law from Mass.gov. You can also browse more specific topics and contact Trial Court Law Libraries.
• MA Tenant Rights Handbook
  This comprehensive handbook from the Massachusetts Law Reform Institute provides information on tenant rights and responsibilities for private housing renters and owners.
• Massachusetts Lead Law
  It is possible for homes built before 1978 to contain lead. Learn about the state laws that help protect children and families from this hazard. 

American Red Cross - Massachusetts

If you have experienced a fire or other disaster, the American Red Cross will provide you with free assistance in the aftermath. All disaster assistance is free, provided through the generosity of the American public.

If you or someone you know recently experienced a natural or man-made disaster and needs assistance, please call the Red Cross at (800) 564-1234. This hotline is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.