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H 1573

An Act relative to short term rental inspections

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Dave Vieira

Bill H 1573 streamlines short-term rental inspections in Massachusetts, empowering officials to delegate inspections, ensuring safety compliance for all rental properties.

Accompanied a study order, see H5352 (under House Rule 27)
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Bill Summary · H 1573

Summary of Bill H 1573: An Act Relative to Short Term Rental Inspections

Purpose and Intent

Bill H 1573 aims to streamline the inspection process for short-term rental properties in Massachusetts. The legislation seeks to clarify the authority of building officials regarding inspections of both primary and non-primary owner-occupied short-term rentals, ensuring compliance with safety and building codes.

Key Provisions

  • Appointment of Designees: The bill allows building officials to appoint a designee specifically for conducting inspections of short-term rentals. This provision applies to both:

    • Non-Primary Owner-Occupied Rentals: Properties not primarily occupied by the owner.
    • Primary Owner-Occupied Rentals: Properties where the owner resides.

  • Compliance with Existing Codes: Inspections will be conducted in accordance with the Massachusetts Amendments to the International Building Code 2021, specifically referencing Section 110 “Inspections” and Table 110.7.

Affected Parties

  • Building Officials: The bill empowers building officials to delegate inspection responsibilities, potentially increasing efficiency in the inspection process.
  • Short-Term Rental Owners: Owners of both primary and non-primary short-term rental properties will be subject to inspections, ensuring their properties meet safety standards.
  • Local Governments: Municipalities will need to adapt their inspection processes to comply with the new provisions set forth in this legislation.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced Date: The bill was introduced on February 27, 2025.
  • Legislative Actions:
    • Referred to the committee on Housing on the same day it was introduced.
    • The Senate concurred with the bill on February 27, 2025.
    • A hearing is scheduled for November 19, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM in Gardner Auditorium, where stakeholders can provide input on the bill.

Conclusion

Bill H 1573 represents a significant step towards regulating short-term rentals in Massachusetts by enhancing the inspection process. By allowing building officials to appoint designees for inspections, the bill aims to ensure that all short-term rental properties adhere to safety and building standards, ultimately benefiting both property owners and the community at large.

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

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