To (landlord / property-management agent):

My name is and I am the tenant of record at the unit address listed above. I am writing regarding the notice or communication dated , which I received on . That notice concerns: (describe in one sentence — the type of notice, the amount or action stated, and the date the landlord stated it would take effect). I am responding in writing so that there is a dated record for both parties.

Massachusetts law gives tenants a set of protections that apply to this situation. Tenancies at will and for years are governed by M.G.L. c. 186, which sets minimum notice periods and the conditions under which a tenancy may be terminated. Summary process (eviction) proceedings are governed by M.G.L. c. 239, which requires that a landlord establish proper grounds and follow the prescribed notice timeline before a court may issue a judgment for possession. For repair and habitability notices, M.G.L. c. 239 § 8A codifies the implied warranty of habitability: a landlord who has failed to maintain the unit in habitable condition may not maintain a summary process action, and the tenant may raise the condition as a defense or counterclaim. Where local rent-stabilization ordinances or just-cause protections apply, additional notice and justification requirements govern rent increases and no-fault terminations. I am noting these provisions so that both parties are working from the same legal baseline.

I am specifically requesting the following remedy: (e.g., "Rescind the notice dated [date]" / "Provide written basis for the rent increase, including the calculation and the applicable notice period" / "Complete the repair at by " / "Explain in writing how the rent-increase amount was calculated and confirm whether local stabilization rules apply"). Please respond in writing to this address within fourteen days of the date of this letter.

This letter is not legal advice. For advice on your specific case, the Massachusetts Housing Court Self-Help Center and the Massachusetts Law Reform Institute publish plain-language guides at masslegalhelp.org. Greater Boston Legal Services and other regional legal aid organizations provide free housing representation to income-eligible tenants — I encourage both parties to consult qualified counsel before this matter advances further.

I will follow up in writing within fourteen days if I do not receive a written response. I am sending this letter by certified mail with return receipt requested and keeping a copy for my records along with the envelope and the postal receipt. If this matter has already been docketed with the Housing Court, I will bring a copy of this letter to that proceeding.