Looking to Network in MA/RI/NH area

[Cameron Iarrobino]

Hi everyone, new to the BP community. Recently acquired my first property (multi family duplex in Franklin MA) and have loved the process thus far. Looking to network with other investors & professionals in the MA/NH/RI area to hopefully learn more

[Derreck Wells]

Originally posted by @Cameron Iarrobino:

Hi everyone, new to the BP community. Recently acquired my first property (multi family duplex in Franklin MA) and have loved the process thus far. Looking to network with other investors & professionals in the MA/NH/RI area to hopefully learn more

 Hi Cameron,

I just wanted to drop you a note on the new lead paint laws in MA. They now only give you 90 days to delead when you buy a rental. If you don't delead within 90 days, you can be held liable for any lead poisonings that have ever happened at the building, even if it was before you owned it... and even after you delead it you would still be liable for previous issues because you didn't do it in the 90 day deadline. They basically hold the building liable rather than the owner and that liability transfers from owner to owner until someone deleads it and breaks the chain. If you delead, and maintain the standard, you will be in the clear. I recommend a Post Compliance Assessment Determination (PCAD) every 5 years or so.

Here's the law (emphasis added by me):
460.100: Duty of Owner(s) of Residential Premises
(B) Whenever any residential premises containing dangerous levels of lead in paint, plaster or other accessible structural material undergoes a change of ownership and as a result a child younger than six years old will become or will continue to be a resident therein, the new owner shall have 90 days after becoming the owner to obtain a Letter of Full Compliance or a Letter of Interim Control, except that if a child younger than six years old who is lead poisoned resides therein, the owner shall not be eligible for interim control, unless the Director grants a waiver pursuant to 105 CMR 460.100(A)(3).

Note it says "a child younger than six years old will become ... a resident therein...". It is assumed by the state that any rental larger than a 1 bedroom will fall into this category at some point because of the anti-discrimination laws that prevent landlords from refusing a family because they have a child. The law specifically excludes rentals under 250 square feet. Basically this is their way of getting all rentals lead safe. If you don't delead, you will be putting yourself in a dangerous position.

If you don't know if your new property had ever been inspected for lead paint, I can run the address through the state database for you and let you know what I find. 

If you need a lead inspection done, I would recommend Anderson Lead Inspections. Craig works with the owners rather than against them.

If you have any questions, feel free to let me know.

Derreck