The Columbia Gas explosions in Lawrence, Andover
and North Andover raise numerous questions for landlords. Tenants are going for
weeks or months without gas and had some time without electricity. Should
landlords offer rent abatements and if so, how much and for how long? Should
they reimburse tenants for out of pocket expenses? Should they refuse to do
either of these things and tell tenants to put claims in with Columbia Gas and
with their renter's insurance? Should they serve notices to quit when tenants
don't pay their rent? Co-chairs of the Residential Landlord/Tenant Section, Ken Krems and Emil Ward, will lead an
open discussion of these and related issues.