Office of Housing Stability - Boston, MA

Preventing Displacement in Boston

Mission and Services

The Office of Housing Stability (OHS), a division of the Mayor's Office of Housing, is located at 26 Court Street in downtown Boston. Established in 2016 as the first office of its kind in the nation, OHS is dedicated to preventing involuntary displacement and promoting housing stability for Boston residents. The office serves as a critical safety net for tenants facing eviction, rent increases, or housing instability, while also providing resources for small landlords.

• Eviction Prevention: OHS provides crisis intervention, case management, and referrals to legal assistance for tenants at risk of losing their homes.
• Housing Search: The office manages the Metrolist, a comprehensive clearinghouse for income-restricted and affordable housing opportunities in the Greater Boston area.
• Legal Clinics: OHS hosts weekly virtual legal clinics where residents can consult with attorneys and mediators to resolve landlord-tenant disputes.

Assistance and Accessibility

The Office of Housing Stability is committed to making its services accessible to all Bostonians. Staff members are available to assist residents in multiple languages, ensuring that language barriers do not prevent access to essential housing support. The office works closely with community partners and other city departments to enforce tenant rights and maintain the diversity of Boston's neighborhoods.

Visiting the Office

While many services are accessible by phone or online, the physical office at 26 Court Street is open during standard business hours. Visitors should be prepared for security screening upon entering the municipal building. It is recommended to call ahead or schedule an appointment for complex case management, although walk-ins for emergencies are generally accommodated.