Tenants with complaints should report them to the landlord, preferably in writing. If the landlord fails to make the repairs after a reasonable time or if a problem needs immediate attention to eliminate a health risk, the tenant should report the violation to the City of Boston Inspectional Services Department (ISD) at (617) 635-5300.
Code violations may include:
Insufficient heat or hot water
Windows that are not weather-tight
Insect or rodent infestation
Trash being put out too early
Improper storage of trash
Sidewalks that have not been shoveled
Littering
Illegal dumping
Signs posted in public without proper authority