MA H2542

Defines "infestation" in the State Sanitary Code as pest presence in quantities large enough that occupants would have knowledge and need to take beyond-reasonable measures to address the issue

Requires tenants to immediately notify owners in writing of pest presence, allow access for inspections and treatments with 24 hours notice, and comply with certified applicator protocols; tenants who fail to comply are liable for actual and consequential damages

Mandates owners perform visual inspections within 5 business days of tenant notification and retain a certified applicator within 10 business days; owners must continue treatments until pest control is deemed complete, with a follow-up inspection within 30 days

Requires owners to perform visual inspections and provide written verification that unoccupied units are pest-free before signing lease agreements; tenants are not liable for infestation damages if infestations are confirmed within 30 days of signing without such verification

Limits owner liability for infestation damages only to cases where they fail to comply with the act's requirements, while allowing owners and tenants to negotiate alternative cost-sharing arrangements