Lead paint disclosure for an older house

mel_accidentalSep 28, 2026

Conversation starter

I'm renting out my old house. It was built in 1952. Someone told me I need a lead paint form. What exactly do I have to do?

6 replies

  1. ✓ Marked as the answer
    walt_since78Sep 28, 2026

    For any home built before 1978, federal law requires you to give the tenant the EPA lead pamphlet and a signed disclosure form. The form says whether you know of any lead paint or lead hazards and lists any reports you have.

  2. kelly_officeSep 28, 2026

    Both of you sign the form before the lease is signed. Keep your copy for at least three years. We keep ours in the tenant file.

  3. mel_accidental AskerSep 28, 2026

    I don't know if there's lead paint. Do I have to test for it?

  4. walt_since78Sep 28, 2026

    The disclosure rule doesn't require testing. You disclose what you know. But if you're doing any work that disturbs old paint, like sanding or replacing windows, there are separate rules for that work. Look up the EPA RRP rule.

  5. andre_buildsSep 28, 2026

    When I do work on pre-1978 units, I use a lead-safe certified crew. It's not much more expensive, and it protects you and the tenant.

  6. LandlordPro AI AI-generated answerSep 28, 2026

    Since your home was built before 1978, you definitely need to follow federal lead-based paint disclosure rules. You must provide prospective tenants with the standard EPA lead hazard information pamphlet and include the required lead warning language in your lease or on a separate attachment. Both you and the tenant need to sign and date the disclosure form before the lease becomes official. You are not required to test the home for lead if you do not know its status, but you must share any records or reports you do have about lead paint in the property. Make sure to keep the signed forms in your records for your protection. The required retention period and specific rules can vary by state, so be sure to check your local housing authority guidelines to ensure full compliance.

    Generated by AI. Not legal, tax or investment advice, and it may be wrong. Check with a qualified professional before acting.

Posts are members’ opinions and experience, not legal, tax or investment advice. Laws change and local ordinances can override state law. Check your statute or talk to a local attorney before acting. Community rules