HOUSING MEDIATION
Just Mediation Pittsburgh is a local nonprofit organization that provides housing mediation services. Mediation is always free, confidential, and voluntary.
What to Expect
Unlike eviction court, mediation provides a space where both parties have a hand in crafting an agreement that is reasonable and realistic for their particular situation. Agreements often address disputes involving rental arrears, breakdowns in communication, lease breaches, habitability concerns, and other housing related concerns.
Neutral Mediators in a Virtual Setting
A neutral, third-party mediator will facilitate each mediation, guiding a conversation that allows both the tenant and landlord an opportunity to have a discussion and create solutions for their housing concerns. This meeting will take place virtually over Zoom, and can be accessed by phone call if one is not able to access a video call.
Resource Navigation
Just Mediation Pittsburgh does not provide rental assistance, but mediation participants will be connected to a Mediation Resource Navigator (MRN) from RentHelpPGH. The MRN will contact the parties prior to mediation to determine if they are eligible for any assistance. If the parties are eligible for resources such as rental assistance, the MRN will assist them with collecting documentation and completing the application requirements.
Preparation Before Mediation
Prior to the mediation, the landlord and tenant should be prepared with any relevant documentation, such as a lease, payment receipts, photos of damages, etc. Additionally, multiple sources will be contacting parties before mediation, including the mediator, the Mediation Resource Navigator, and Neighborhood Legal Services. These conversations are essential to prepare for mediation, so be sure to answer communications from unknown numbers in the weeks leading up to your mediation.
Good Faith Participation
By deciding to join mediation, both sides commit to being fair and open by actively talking to each other when issues arise that could impede a successful mediation process. JMP provides a mediation service as an option to going to court for eviction cases. So, when people choose to be part of our program, we expect them to try mediation before going to court.