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SD 423

An Act relative to crumbling concrete foundations

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Brian Ashe and 27 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill establishing disclosure requirements and remedies for homes with defective concrete foundations to protect homeowner equity and housing market integrity.

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SD 423

Legislative bill overview

SD 423 addresses the "crumbling concrete foundation" problem affecting thousands of Massachusetts homes, where concrete foundations deteriorate prematurely due to defective materials or construction practices. The bill establishes mechanisms for identifying affected properties, requires disclosure of foundation conditions in real estate transactions, and creates remedies or support systems for homeowners dealing with this costly structural issue.

Why is this important

Crumbling foundations can render homes structurally unsound and unmortgageable, devastating homeowners financially and making properties unsellable. Massachusetts has identified this as a significant consumer protection and housing stability issue affecting multiple communities, particularly in Central Massachusetts, where foundation failures have become widespread in recent years.

Potential points of contention

  • Liability assignment: Whether fault lies with builders, concrete suppliers, municipalities, or testing labs—and who ultimately bears remediation costs
  • Homeowner eligibility: How to fairly determine which properties qualify for assistance without creating unlimited liability or unfunded mandates
  • Disclosure requirements: Balancing transparency needs against potential market impacts and stigmatization of affected properties or neighborhoods
  • Government cost and funding: Whether public funds should subsidize private property repairs versus market-based solutions

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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