BOS:311

280 Commonwealth Ave has pests inside the walls. This was noticed during August shortly after moving in, due to the noises of scratching, squeaking, and scurrying in the walls. The building management team was notified via email on Aug 5, 2026 of the issue. The management team replied on Thursday Aug 6 that on Monday Aug 10, the exterminator would come by outside the building to install traps and try to locate the source of the issue. After reaching out to the management team on Aug 27 because we were hearing the pests daily, they replied on Aug 28 that the exterminators have come by a few times to address the issue. As of mid Aug 2026, the noises of pests inside the walls of our ground floor unit have increased noticeably, especially during the late afternoon through the night. Specifically tonight, September 2, the noises of the pests were so loud I believe they could potentially make it inside the unit within a few hours/days. I have recorded a video for evidence, but cannot upload it here. The management company is Boston Proper Real Estate (mgmt@bostonproperrealestate.com). I would like assistance on additional immediate inspections/actions so that pests do not enter the unit.

Tenant report, moved in Sept 1, 2026. House rented by the room from the principal tenant; basement is rented as sleeping space. Conditions found on move-in: accumulated garbage and strong odor throughout; dead rat found Sept 1; snap trap and used glue trap already in place; open gaps at the base of the brick foundation walls; rotted and unsealed windows with cloth and paper towel stuffed into gaps; broken window sash lock; exposed wiring along foundation wall; overgrown vegetation against rear door and a basement window; previous occupants' belongings, broken furniture, and food left in the refrigerator and freezer. A standard 3-hour cleaning arranged by the principal tenant took place on Sept 2; the photos are from before it. To our knowledge none of the structural items, window defects or pest entry points have been addressed, and no pest treatment has been done. We have not re-entered since. Requesting a housing inspection and certification of violations under 105 CMR 410, including whether the basement is approved for sleeping. Tenants are not sleeping in the house. Photos and video available on request. Children under 6: No.