City of Boston Renting Guide

From brownstones to high rises to single-family homes, there are many rental housing options in Boston. Browse the resources below from Boston.gov to learn what to expect from the rental process.

LEASES

Leases, which typically run for one year, are binding legal contracts. Leases offer security for tenants. Read any agreement before signing it, and keep a copy for your records. If you have roommates and one moves out, you may still be responsible for paying their portion of the rent until you find a new one.

TENANCY-AT-WILL AGREEMENTS

A tenancy-at-will agreement gives you the opportunity to move out after giving the landlord a proper 30-day written notice. It also allows the landlord to ask you to leave or to increase your rent with a proper 30-day written notice.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES