Bill > H2542

This bill establishes new requirements for rental property owners regarding pest infestations, creating a clear protocol for addressing and managing such issues. Within 10 business days of learning about a potential infestation, the owner must hire a certified applicator (a professional pest control specialist) to inspect the dwelling unit, and if an infestation is confirmed, the owner must perform treatments and extermination services as recommended by the certified applicator until the pest control is deemed complete. Before leasing an unoccupied unit, owners must visually inspect the unit and provide written verification that it is free of infestations, and if pests are found, they must complete extermination protocols before signing a lease. The bill also stipulates that owners will not be liable for damages caused by infestations if they have followed the prescribed procedures, though they can still negotiate additional responsibilities with tenants. If an owner fails to provide written verification of a pest-free unit at lease signing and an infestation is confirmed within 30 days, the tenant will not be held responsible for any resulting damages. The legislation aims to create a structured approach to addressing pest control in rental properties, ensuring clear responsibilities for both owners and tenants.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2542