My family is looking to purchase a 6 unit on a residential street. All other properties are 3 unit multi-families and there is no commercial anything anywhere. But, a bank representative stated that we had to have a 21E inspection, and he was quite adament about it. Why? What the heck would they inspect. I feel they are only stating that because the word "commercial" comes into play when there are more than 5 units in a residential property. A commercial 21E costs thousands...any thoughts as to why they would say that? They don't know the property...they are not from the area but still in MA. Thanks...

You can find more about it here - http://www.malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartI/TitleII/Chapter21e. It's a bit dense but it's important to read all the fine print.