The Massachusetts Lead Law, MGL c.111 s.197A, requires de-leading of pre-1978 homes when a child under 6 resides there. Enforcement is strict.
Middlesex County has an unusually high share of pre-1978 housing, especially in Cambridge, Somerville, Medford, Malden, Everett, and Lowell. The Massachusetts Lead Law, MGL c.111 s.189A to s.199B with regulations at 105 CMR 460.000, requires property owners to remove or cover lead paint hazards (de-leading) whenever a child under age six resides in the dwelling, regardless of whether lead levels are elevated. Only a licensed lead inspector may issue a Letter of Compliance or Letter of Interim Control. Discrimination against families with children to avoid the law is illegal under MGL c.151B. Federal EPA Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) rules also apply.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
See how Middlesex County's lead paint rules stack up against other locations.
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