Massachusetts has some of the oldest housing stock in the country. Many homes here predate modern building codes by a century or more. What counts as a 'problem' in a brand new subdivision is just the normal character of a 150-year-old Victorian.
Understanding local context helps Massachusetts home buyers interpret inspection reports accurately and make informed decisions about historic properties.
Common Massachusetts Considerations
- Aging heating systems
- Ice dam potential
- Foundation settlement in older homes
- Lead paint in pre-1978 construction
- Knob and tube wiring
- Asbestos insulation
Local Requirements: Massachusetts requires home inspectors to be licensed. Radon and lead paint disclosures are common requirements in transactions.