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H 1571

An Act to make home repair affordable and stabilize communities

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Erika Uyterhoeven

Bill H 1571 provides grants to low-income homeowners and loans to small landlords for home repairs, improving safety and stability in Massachusetts communities.

Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means
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Bill Summary · H 1571

Summary of Bill H 1571: An Act to Make Home Repair Affordable and Stabilize Communities

Purpose and Intent

Bill H 1571 aims to enhance the affordability of home repairs and contribute to the stabilization of communities in Massachusetts. The legislation seeks to address habitability concerns in residential units, ensuring they are safe, healthy, and energy-efficient. By providing financial assistance to homeowners and small landlords, the bill intends to improve living conditions and promote community well-being.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several significant provisions, including:

Whole Home Repairs Program

  • Establishment: The Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities will create a "whole home repairs program" to coordinate existing federal and state resources for home repairs.
  • Funding: Applicants (nonprofits or governmental entities) can receive up to 4% of the appropriated funds for administrative costs.

Financial Assistance

  • Grants and Loans:
    • Grants will be available for homeowners with household incomes not exceeding 80% of the area median income.
    • Loans will be offered to small landlords renting affordable units, with a maximum of $50,000 per unit for addressing habitability concerns, improving energy or water efficiency, or making units accessible for individuals with disabilities.

Loan Forgiveness

  • Loans to small landlords may be forgiven if specific conditions are met, including:
    • Offering a 3-year lease extension to existing tenants.
    • Limiting annual rent increases to 3% or having tenants participating in the Housing Choice Voucher Program for at least 15 years.
    • No serious violations related to the rental property in the past 15 years.
    • Maintaining ownership of the unit for at least 15 years.

Program Administration

  • Funds must be used to:
    • Administer the program effectively, including maximizing enrollment in existing home repair programs.
    • Invest in workforce development programs to connect trainees with jobs related to home repair and improvement.

Affected Parties

  • Homeowners: Individuals with incomes below 80% of the area median income will benefit from grants.
  • Small Landlords: Landlords with ownership of no more than 5 properties and 15 rental units will have access to loans for property improvements.
  • Communities: The overall community will benefit from improved housing conditions and stability.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: February 27, 2025
  • Hearing Scheduled: A public hearing is set for November 19, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM in Gardner Auditorium.
  • Legislative Actions: The bill was referred to the committee on Housing and has received concurrence from the Senate.

Conclusion

Bill H 1571 represents a proactive approach to improving housing conditions in Massachusetts by making home repairs more affordable and supporting small landlords. Through its comprehensive funding and support mechanisms, the bill aims to enhance the quality of life for residents and foster community stability.

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

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