Join Our Tenant Union

Tenant unions are the most effective way for renters to collectively bargain for better living conditions, fair rents, and respect from landlords. Together, we have power.

Why Join a Tenant Union?

  • Collective Bargaining Power: Negotiate repairs, rent freezes, and policy changes as a united front
  • Protection from Retaliation: Landlords are less likely to target individuals when tenants organize together
  • Community Solidarity: Build relationships with neighbors and create mutual support networks
  • Long-term Stability: Work toward permanent housing justice through policy advocacy

Missoula Neighbors United's Tenant Organizing

Fill out this form to join or request consultation. All renters in Missoula are welcome!

We'll contact you within 48 hours with next steps. Your information is confidential.

Start Your Own Tenant Union

Already have neighbors interested in organizing? Start a tenant union in your building or neighborhood! Here's our step-by-step guide:

1

Identify & Connect

Start by talking to your neighbors. Look for common issues: repairs needed, rent increases, safety concerns. Leave friendly notes under doors or host a casual gathering.

Tip: Start with just 2-3 trusted neighbors. You don't need everyone at first.

2

Build Trust & Privacy

Have one-on-one conversations about housing experiences. Discuss concerns about retaliation and establish privacy expectations. Never pressure anyone to participate.

Tip: Use encrypted messaging apps like Signal for sensitive conversations.

3

Document Everything

Create a shared list of issues with photos, dates, and communication records. Track repair requests, rent increases, and landlord communications.

Tip: Use our Tenant Issue Tracker Template to get started.

4

Formalize Your Union

Draft a simple agreement outlining your collective goals. Choose roles (coordinator, note-taker, etc.). Decide on meeting frequency and communication methods.

Tip: Keep structure simple at first. Focus on 1-2 achievable goals.

5

Make Your First Demand

Start with a winnable issue that affects most tenants. Draft a collective letter signed by all participating tenants. Deliver it together or send certified mail.

Tip: Use our Sample Demand Letter Template for guidance.

6

Connect & Grow

Link up with other community members in Missoula through MNU. Share strategies, resources, and support. Build city-wide power for housing justice.

Tip: Attend our monthly general meeting to connect with others.

Download Our Starter Kit

Get all the templates, guides, and resources you need to start organizing:

  • Tenant Organizing 101 Guide (PDF)
  • Issue Tracking Spreadsheet Template
  • Sample Demand Letters for Different Situations
  • Know-Your-Rights Pocket Guide for Montana Tenants
  • Meeting Agenda Templates
Download Starter Kit

How MNU Can Help Facilitate

Missoula Neighbors United provides direct support to tenant organizers. Here's how we can help you build power in your building:

Organizer Training

One-on-one coaching and group workshops on tenant organizing basics, communication strategies, and dealing with landlord retaliation.

Request Training

Materials & Templates

Ready-to-use flyers, petition templates, demand letters, meeting agendas, and communication tools for your organizing campaign.

Get Templates

Mediation Support

Facilitated conversations with landlords, help drafting agreements, and support during negotiations for repairs or policy changes.

Request Mediation

Retaliation Protection

Support if your landlord retaliates against organizing, including public pressure campaigns, and emergency housing assistance.

Safety Resources

Network Connections

Connect with other organizations in Missoula to share strategies, resources, and build city-wide collective power.

Join Network

Request Organizing Support

Already starting to organize? Need specific help? Fill out our support request form:

Email Our Organizing Team