EPA lead pamphlet 2026: what changed and do you need the new one?

✓ Rules last checked Nov. 2, 2026 against official sources

Short answer: EPA has published a revised 2026 version of Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home, the pamphlet sellers and landlords of pre-1978 housing must hand over before a buyer or tenant is bound by a contract. EPA says it does not require you to throw away older versions, but if you use an older one you should give the supplement in the appropriate language so the updated information is provided (EPA pamphlet page, last updated Oct. 13, 2026).

What changed in the 2026 version

New dust-lead levels. It reflects the new dust-lead action levels (previously called dust-lead clearance levels) and dust-lead reportable levels (previously called dust-lead hazard standards), effective Jan. 12, 2026. EPA says these are referenced on pages 6 and 11.
Updated “abatement” definition. The definition of abatement that took effect Jan. 13, 2025 is reflected on pages 10 and 11.
Languages. The 2026 version is available in English, Arabic, Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), French, Korean, Polish, Russian, Somali, Spanish, Tagalog and Vietnamese, each with portrait and booklet layouts and a supplement (EPA).

Who has to give the pamphlet, and when

Under the federal disclosure rule, before a purchaser or lessee is obligated under a contract to buy or lease pre-1978 (“target”) housing that isn’t exempt, the seller or lessor must provide an EPA-approved lead hazard information pamphlet, such as Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home or an equivalent approved for use in that state by EPA (40 CFR 745.107(a)(1)). The same section also requires disclosing known lead-based paint and hazards and handing over available records and reports, including for common areas (745.107(a)(2)–(4)).

If any of these steps happens after an offer is made, the seller or lessor must complete them before accepting the offer and let the buyer or tenant review the information and possibly amend the offer (745.107(b)).

What to do now (our suggestion)

Swap in the 2026 PDF from the EPA pamphlet page in your lease packet, listing packet or e-sign template.
Using up printed stock? Staple or attach the 2026 supplement in the same language to each older copy, as EPA recommends.
Match the language. If you lease or sell in Spanish, Chinese or another listed language, use that language’s 2026 version or supplement.
Keep proof. Keep the signed disclosure form showing the pamphlet was received with your records (see our disclosure guide for the federal record rules).

Our checklist suggestion for staying organized, not an official form.

Real estate agent or broker?

Our free agent checklist walks through the federal disclosure steps for every pre-1978 sale or lease.

Free agent checklist Landlord disclosure guide

FAQ

Is there a new EPA lead pamphlet for 2026?

Yes. EPA published a revised 2026 version of Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home. It reflects the new dust-lead action levels and dust-lead reportable levels effective Jan. 12, 2026, and the updated abatement definition effective Jan. 13, 2025.

Do I have to throw away my old lead pamphlets?

No. EPA says it does not require users to discard older versions, but users should provide a supplement in the appropriate language if using prior versions so the updated information is provided.

When must a landlord or seller give the lead pamphlet?

Before the buyer or tenant is obligated under a contract to buy or lease pre-1978 housing that is not exempt (40 CFR 745.107(a)(1)).

What languages is the 2026 EPA lead pamphlet available in?

English, Arabic, Chinese Simplified and Traditional, French, Korean, Polish, Russian, Somali, Spanish, Tagalog and Vietnamese, according to EPA.

Sources checked Nov. 2, 2026: EPA pamphlet page (last updated Oct. 13, 2026) and 40 CFR 745.107 on eCFR.

Not legal advice. LeadSafeRules summarizes official city, state and federal sources for information only. Rules change, so confirm with the official source before relying on this.