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🔧 Building Safety/Lead Paint

Lowell vs Waltham

How do lead paint rules compare between Lowell, MA and Waltham, MA?

Lowell and Waltham have similar restriction levels.

Lowell, MA

Middlesex County

Heavy Restrictions

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.

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Waltham, MA

Middlesex County

Heavy Restrictions

Waltham rental properties built before 1978 must comply with the Massachusetts Lead Law (MGL c.111 s.197A), requiring de-leading when a child under 6 resides in the home.

View full Waltham rules →

Key Facts Comparison

FactLowellWaltham
TriggerPre-1978 home + child under 6-
StatuteMGL c.111 s.197A, 105 CMR 460MGL c.111 s.197A
DisclosureRequired to buyers and renters-
LiabilityStrict liability for poisoning-
Trigger Age-Child under 6
Property Age-Built before 1978
Enforcement-MA DPH CLPPP
Notification-Required at lease/sale

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

Lowell FAQ

Can a Lowell landlord refuse families with kids due to lead?

No. Discrimination based on lead paint is illegal under MA fair housing law.

Who can de-lead my Lowell home?

Only a Massachusetts-licensed de-leader may perform the work; moderate-risk work can be done by trained owners.

Waltham FAQ

Must I de-lead my Waltham rental?

Yes if the home was built before 1978 and a child under age 6 will reside there; interim controls or full de-leading is required.

What is the Tenant Lead Law Notification?

A state-required disclosure form landlords must provide tenants before lease signing for pre-1978 rentals.

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