What information can I get about lead-based paint in a home before I buy or rent it?   

Answer: Many houses and apartments built before 1978 have some lead-based paint. Lead from paint chips, and dust can pose serious health hazards if not taken care of properly. Federal law requires that individuals receive certain information before renting or buying pre-1978 housing. Sellers and landlords must:

• Disclose information on known lead-based paint and lead-based paint hazards in the housing being sold or rented;
• Provide buyers and renters with any available records or reports pertaining to lead-based paint or lead-based paint hazards in the housing; and
• Provide buyers and renters with a copy of the pamphlet entitled “Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home.”

In addition, sellers must give potential buyers an opportunity to check the home for lead-based paint or lead-based paint hazards. To learn more about the lead disclosure rule for real estate visit https://www.epa.gov/lead/real-estate-disclosure.

Question Number: 23002-21996

Find a printable PDF copy of all frequent questions pertaining to lead.