Essex Junction Vermont

There is a new mandate in many parts of the country that is being done in the name of healthy housing. Here is a list of some of them that are popping up all over. Part of it has to do with lead hazards found in homes, and that is where we come in. Other issues can be addressed too, like plumbing, HVAC, insulation, safety, and windows, etc. This program is a baby step towards Dr Steven Galson’s dream of marching toward healthy housing. It has to start somewhere; perhaps it goes bottom up rather than top down. Having a healthy housing stock that is maintained is a revolutionary idea that drives me.

Landlord

It has a medieval sound to it, which is a bit over the top. When I was one, my residents, however, seemed to believe that if they did not complain, then that meant that I was not going to be bothered by them, and then I would not raise their rent. I countered, “I go to sleep believing that everything is working and fine.” In the gap is reality. Residents don’t complain, and things fall apart. These agencies are also helping with finding the resources to help landlords comply. Win-win!

Registry Means

Programs vary around the country and are gaining popularity. The gist of them is that rental properties are often neglected, and the residents are often exposed to unsafe housing conditions. The residents are happy just to have a roof over their heads, but the living conditions can be problematic. Often, the resident is unwilling to report issues for fear of eviction or retribution; this program provides a third party who can now identify and help to ensure compliance with minimum standards. Sounds reasonable to me.

• A governmental agency oversees the property.
• A fee is charged to cover the cost of the program.
• Recurrent lead hazards are identified and dealt with.
• Some areas just do larger multiplexes others go down to singles and doubles. 
• It is not just about Lead, all systems are evaluated. 
• Often a resident cannot be evicted for non payment of rent if existing issues are not rectified. (in many cases)

Opportunity or Mandate

Half full or half empty. As I see it, there are some opportunities here if you look at things that way. As a owner operator you could do your own inspection in advance of the formal one. This is where the Lumetallix instant lead test could be your friend. You could also provide test kits for residents to monitor the condition of the unit periodically and learn how to clean lead safe.

A Mountain Of Work

Home inspectors that deal in lead have a mountain of work to do. They use dust wipes and labs to verify if a lead hazard is present. They also do a visual inspection and report on what they find and make recommendations. Some do risk assessments, others require only a lead hazard. Cycles are from 2 to 3 years and the wheels on the bus go round and round.

Shout Out To The Movers And Shakers

Granted there were no landlords at the 2025 Lead and Healthy Housing Conference but had there been some it would have been interesting to hear their perspective. Are they being forced to comply or are they being enticed to comply? Carrot or stick? Regardless the housing stock in America has a bright future being heralded by a group of dedicated individuals that had a great idea and the guts to do something new, likely unpopular, that makes a difference.

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If you or someone you know is lead testing or just wants to speak to a trustworthy guy, please contact me. You’ll be glad you did.