Cambridge vs Somerville
How do lead paint rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Somerville, MA?
Cambridge and Somerville have similar restriction levels.
Cambridge, MA
Middlesex County
Massachusetts Lead Law under MGL c.111 s.197A requires de-leading of pre-1978 homes when a child under 6 resides there, and Cambridge CEDO aggressively enforces compliance.
View full Cambridge rules →Somerville, MA
Middlesex County
Under MA Lead Law (MGL c.111 s.197A), Somerville owners must delead or apply interim control to any pre-1978 unit where a child under 6 lives, critical given the city's old housing stock.
View full Somerville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cambridge | Somerville |
|---|---|---|
| Statute | MGL c.111 s.189A-199B | MGL c.111 s.197A |
| Trigger | Child under 6 in pre-1978 home | Pre-1978 with child under 6 |
| Required Document | Letter of Compliance | - |
| Treble Damages | For violations | - |
| Discrimination | Cannot refuse families | - |
| Letter | - | Compliance or Interim Control |
| Tax Credit | - | Up to $1500 per unit |
| Contact | - | Somerville 311 or (617) 625-6600 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Cambridge FAQ
Do I have to de-lead my rental?
Yes, if a child under 6 lives there and the home was built before 1978, de-leading is mandatory.
Can I refuse tenants with kids?
No, it is illegal discrimination to refuse tenants because of lead paint concerns.
Somerville FAQ
Can my Somerville landlord refuse to rent because of my kids?
No. Refusing to rent to families with children under 6 due to lead paint is illegal discrimination under MGL c.151B. The landlord must delead or apply interim controls.
Do I need to delead if I live in my own Somerville home?
Not required for owner-occupants, but strongly recommended if children under 6 live there. Blood lead testing is mandated for young children in MA.
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