Lowell, MA Building Safety: Lead Paint (2026)
Key Facts
- Trigger
- Pre-1978 home + child under 6
- Statute
- MGL c.111 s.197A, 105 CMR 460
- Disclosure
- Required to buyers and renters
- Liability
- Strict liability for poisoning
Summary
Lowell's historic housing stock triggers the Massachusetts Lead Law requiring full de-leading of pre-1978 homes where any child under 6 resides, a critical compliance issue for landlords and buyers.
lead paint inspection report, letter of interim control, letter of compliance or abatement plan applicable to the dwelling unit and to the common areas or exterior surfaces of the residential premises; and (iii) two copies of a statement certifying that the prospective tenant received all of the above materials, one copy of which is to be retained by the tenant and one by the owner. For purposes of this section, inclusion of such certification as a provision in a written tenancy agreement shall be permitted. (e) Any owner who fails to comply with the provisions of this section shall be liable for all damages caused by the failure to comply and, in addition, shall be subject to assessment of a penalty not to exceed one thousand dollars.
Full Breakdown
Lowell's housing stock is among the oldest in Massachusetts, with large numbers of 19th and early 20th century homes and mill-era multifamily buildings. 197A and 105 CMR 460) requires that any residential property built before 1978 where a child under 6 years of age resides must be de-leaded or brought into interim control to remove or cover all accessible lead paint. 151B. Property owners must provide prospective tenants and buyers with the state Property Transfer Lead Paint Notification and, for rentals, the Tenant Lead Law Notification.
De-leading work must be performed by a licensed contractor, with interim controls possible for 1-2 years. A Letter of Interim Control or Letter of Full Compliance from a licensed lead inspector documents compliance. Violations expose owners to strict liability for child lead poisoning, including statutory damages and attorney fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Lowell landlord refuse families with kids due to lead?
Who can de-lead my Lowell home?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Lowell
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Lead Paint in Nearby Cities
How other cities in this county handle lead paint.