What is a 21E report, and will a buyer ask for one on my Massachusetts shop?
In Massachusetts, a 21E report is a common name for an environmental site check. It's not required by law for every sale, but most buyers and lenders of auto property ask for one.
If this sounds like youA buyer mentioned a 21E and now you're picturing someone digging up your lot. You want to know what you're in for.
What you can do.
Gather what you already have
Old reports, tank removal papers and anything from the state.
Let the buyer run the check
Common. Ask who pays and what happens if they find something.
Get your own check first
Some owners do this to avoid surprises. Ask a licensed site professional.
What to watch for.
- Know where any old tanks, floor drains and oil storage are or were.
- Ask how the sale handles anything a report finds.
- Get your own lawyer for the environmental terms.
Owner to owner, and it stays private.
Lotus buys auto buildings in Massachusetts and expects to look at the environmental side. We'd rather talk about it plainly up front than surprise anyone at the end.
James StephensonLotus, Massachusetts and Connecticut
Quick answers.
Is a 21E required to sell?
Not for every sale, but buyers and lenders usually ask for one on auto property.
Who pays for it?
It's negotiated. Often the buyer pays for their own report.
Is this legal advice?
No. Ask a Massachusetts environmental lawyer about your property.
Thinking about what comes next for your shop or building?
Tell James a little about it. Only James reads it, and the conversation stays private. No pressure, no broker and no mailing list.