Lead Warning Statements & Hazards

Lead Warning Statement (Sale or Purchase) Every purchaser of any interest in residential real property on which a residential dwelling was built prior to 1978 is notified that such property may present exposure to lead from lead-based paint that may place young children at risk of developing lead poisoning.

Lead poisoning in young children may produce permanent neurological damage, including learning disabilities, reduced intelligent quotient, behavioral problems and impaired memory. Lead poisoning also poses a particular risk to pregnant women.

Lead Warning Statement (Lease or Rental) Housing built before 1978 may contain lead-based paint.  Lead from paint, paint chips and dust can pose health hazards if not managed properly.  Lead exposure is especially harmful to young children and pregnant women.

Before renting pre-1978 housing, lessors must disclose the presence of lead-based paint and/or lead-based paint hazards in the dwelling Lessees must also receive federally approved pamphlet on lead poisoning prevention.

EPA’s Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair & Painting Rule:

The new rule requires that contractors and maintenance professionals’ working in pre-1978 housing, child care facilities, and schools with lead-based paint be certified; that their employees be trained; and that they follow protective work practice standards. The rule applies to renovation, repair, or painting activities affecting more than six square feet of lead-based paint in a room or more than 20 square feet of lead-based paint on the exterior.

Enforcement of the rule began October 1, 2010.

See the EPA website at www.epa.gov/lead for more information.