Legal Organization Directory

Eden Counsel of Hope (ECHO) Housing provides counseling and investigation of discriminatory housing practices. Also provides counseling to both landlords and tenants on evictions, repairs, and rent increases, and has mediators available to help resolve disputes.

EDC can help a tenant respond to eviction paperwork (called an “unlawful detainer”) and assist them in the eviction process.

The Eviction Defense Collaborative (EDC) is the primary referral for people who are threatened with an eviction by notice (a warning to do something or leave) or a lawsuit (summons and/or complaint for unlawful detainer). Anyone in this situation should be directed to the EDC’s drop-in clinic immediately. Notices have deadlines, and eviction lawsuits require tenants respond within 5 calendar days – failure to do so could result in them losing the case without having an opportunity to contest or respond.

EDC can also help with a Sheriff’s notice to vacate a unit.

The Eviction Defense Collaborative’s (EDC’s) RADCo program provides interest-free loans and grants to tenants residing in the City and County of San Francisco who have fallen behind in their rent due to a temporary financial setback.

Housing and Economic Rights Advocates (HERA) assists with consumer issues and probate issues, and is a good resource especially for clients without legal status, or with too high of an income for other legal non-profits. Although they are physically located in Oakland, they can help on issues across the Bay Area.

Housing Rights Committee (HRC) provides non-legal housing counseling on a variety of housing-related issues.

The Human Rights Commission is a part of the City of SF, and assists with discrimination complaints in housing and employment.