Wednesday, September 21, 2016

BALTIMORE "ALARM" LANDLORD DEFENSES : Asbestos, Lead paint, Anti-discrimination, Radon, Mold PROBLEMS

www.charlesjeromeware.com   "Here to make a Difference."
For answers to questions or an initial consultation, contact us at Charles Jerome Ware,
Attorneys and Counselors, LLC, at (410) 720-6129  or  (410) 730-5016. This site is for informational purposes and not for legal advice.

For the average residential rental landlord, Baltimore is considered by some commentators to be "ground zero" for resident complaints and claims such as lead paint and lead poisoning. asbestos issues, mold and radon problems, as well as housing discrimination lawsuits. One of the reasons for this is the large number of apartments and houses in certain neighborhoods that were built before 1978 (when lead paint was outlawed in these residential units).  A second reason is the previous history of heavy industrial use of lead (Pb), asbestos, and other chemicals and compounds in the metropolitan area, etc.,

Baltimore residential landlords must be careful to stay on top repair and maintenance needs for their properties
and make necessary repairs on the property promptly when reported.

Further, landlords should not fail to disclose and remedy environmental hazards such as lead paint and other lead poisoning, mold, asbestos and radon.

Although landlords are encouraged to engage in due diligence when checking the backgrounds of prospective tenants, and in maintaining tenant and property files, care must be taken to avoid discrimination against tenants.

We strongly recommend that landlords seek adequate liability and other types of property insurance.

Finally, hire qualified managers to run your rental properties, and hire Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) - certified workers to perform any and all lead abatement, asbestos abatement, etc., work on the rental properties.

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