Bill > LD1927

This bill establishes comprehensive requirements for landlords and tenants regarding mold, water leaks, and dampness in rental properties. The legislation mandates that landlords must promptly inspect dwelling units within 24 hours of a leaking event and within 5 days of a tenant reporting visible mold or dampness. Landlords are required to take reasonable measures to repair leak sources, remove wet building materials, and create a written repair plan for areas with mold contamination. For mold areas larger than 6 square feet, landlords must hire a certified mold remediation professional, while smaller areas can be remediated by the landlord or their agent. Tenants are obligated to immediately notify landlords of leaks, provide reasonable access for inspections and repairs, and cooperate with moisture control measures. The bill defines key terms like "mold assessment professional" and "best practices," and establishes significant penalties for landlord non-compliance, including potential damages and legal action. Additionally, the legislation empowers municipal code enforcement officers and local health officers to require compliance and conduct inspections, creating a multi-layered approach to ensuring housing quality and protecting tenant health. Landlords must also disclose any existing mold, dampness, or leaking issues before renting a unit, and cannot rent units with known moisture-related problems.

Justice

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1927&snum=132