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Inspecting housing in Boston

Learn about the Housing Division at Inspectional Services, and what we do for Boston residents.

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We enforce state and City housing laws. These laws protect the health and safety of the public. Here’s how we regulate housing quality in Boston.

Rental program

Registering rental properties

All rental property owners must register their housing with us. You have to register your rental property every year by July 1. Find out how to register.

Rental inspections

We do random rental inspections at least once every five years. We'll notify you if we choose to inspect your property. Learn more about rental inspections.  

Student housing

We created a report on student housing trends in the City. We're trying to increase opportunities for student housing by 2030. See how we're doing.

Housing codes

We enforce housing codes to protect the health of tenants and the public. You can learn about City housing codes, or read a full list of the state laws.  You have rights as well as rules to follow as a tenant. Learn about your responsibilities as a tenant.

If you think there's a violation of housing code, you can contact one of our inspectors, or contact BOS: 311.

Hoarding

Hoarding
Hoarding in the City of Boston

Hoarders have trouble getting rid of their belongings — their homes are often filled top to bottom with clutter. Over the...

Bed bugs

Property owners must give us written extermination reports within  14 days of getting a bed bug violation. They need to give us these reports before we close a case. We work with owners who have:

  • contracted licensed Pest Control Operators
  • treatment programs in place, and
  • written documents for their treatment programs.

Our standard bed bug notice requires that property owners inspect all units in the home. They must treat all units next to the infested units. This includes units that are above, below, and next to each infested unit. We have more information on the control and prevention of bed bugs.

Did you find bed bugs in your apartment? You can file a report with BOS:311.

Related resources

Dealing with pests and rodents

Learn how we keep the City free of pests and rodents.
Protecting elderly and disabled housing

We make sure elderly residents and people with disabilities have fair housing opportunities.
Breathe Easy at Home

The program helps make sure homes are safe for children with asthma.

BOS:311 service requests

BOS:311
All BOS:311 requests Overcrowding Report Bed Bugs Request a pest or rodent inspection Unsatisfactory living conditions Unsatisfactory utilities (electrical and plumbing)

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