Legal Resources
Despite landlords often having the upper hand, renters possess legal rights. Seeking advice from a knowledgeable landlord-tenant attorney, regardless of financial concerns, is essential to safeguarding these rights and resolving tenancy-related queries effectively.
Tenants facing issues with their housing rights should seek legal aid from landlord-tenant attorneys, who can provide valuable assistance in preventing small claims court disputes.
There are many resources available for those seeking legal landlord-tenant guidance, such as Massachusetts Legal Resource Finder, MassLegalHelp, FindLaw.com, Legal Services Corporation (LSC), and LawHelp.org, which connect individuals seeking legal assistance with local attorneys situated in their area. You can also visit the ABA's free legal answers site, which allows qualifying visitors in participating states to ask a question of a pro bono lawyer.
Know Your Rights
Understanding tenant rights, including the right to a habitable home according to local housing codes, is crucial. Massachusetts legal aid programs put together MassLegalHelp, a website created to help renters find practical information about your legal rights in Massachusetts.
Tenants who enter into lease agreements face potential legal issues and disputes. A landlord-tenant attorney can help tenants with the following:
- Reviewing the terms of a lease or rental agreement
- Avoiding evictions
- Avoiding an unlawful detainer action
- Assessing and reporting housing discrimination in violation of Fair Housing laws
- Getting your security deposit back
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) works to provide affordable housing solutions and community development initiatives across the United States. It administers housing programs, enforces fair housing laws, and conducts research to address housing needs and urban issues while striving for equal housing opportunities.
HUD also provides information and educational resources for renters. Visit the HUD website to learn about tenant rights in Massachusetts.
Need Legal Help?
HUD also maintains a list of housing counseling agencies that help homeowners and tenants.
Additional Legal Resources & Information
Browse the topics below to learn more about landlord-tenant law:
- Eviction
- Landlord Rights
- Landlord Tenant Disputes
- Rent and Security Deposits
- Rental and Lease Agreements
- Repairs and Maintenance
- State Resources
- Tenant Rights
- Legal Resources for Tenants
- Legal Aid and Pro Bono Representation and How to Find It
The information provided is not intended as legal advice. If you are in need of legal assistance, consult a professional.