The ABCD Handbook of Tenant Rights

This website has been put together to inform tenants of their rights and responsibilities while living in Massachusetts.

Tenants in this state have a number of rights when renting. However, if the proper legal procedure is not followed, a tenant may lose these rights.

Understanding these rights ahead of time will not only help you to recognize potential problems, but also put you in a better position to protect yourself.

Keep in mind that there are various ways to achieve your goal of safe, affordable housing. When deciding on your approach to the problem, remember that you cannot always rely on the courts to rule a judgment in your favor. Many tenants avoid court altogether by successfully negotiating solutions with the property owner. This method of "getting the job done" not only saves time and money for both you and the landlord, but typically aids in maintaining relationships between tenants and landlords.

Click on any of the links to the left to learn more about ABCD's "Houseman" Handbook of Tenant Rights.

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Click here to download the entire handbook to your computer.

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Acknowledgements:
Written by Jill Hroziencik
With Special Assistance from Alex Chung
Legal Editing: Mac McCreight, Esq., Greater Boston Legal Services
Special Thanks: Massachusetts Law Reform Institute, Paul Schack, North Shore Community Action Programs