LeadSafeRulesLead paint disclosure for landlords: the federal rule
Before a renter signs a lease for most housing built before 1978, federal law requires the landlord or property manager to do five things. This applies in every state, on top of any state or city lead rules. EPA
The 5 steps before the lease is signed
- Give the renter EPA's Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home pamphlet.
- Disclose anything you know about lead-based paint or lead-based paint hazards in the home or building.
- Hand over all available records and reports on lead-based paint and hazards, including building-wide reports on common areas and other units in multi-unit buildings.
- Include a Lead Warning Statement, attached to or written into the lease, in the same language as the lease, confirming you complied. EPA publishes a sample Lessor's Disclosure form in English and Spanish.
- Keep a signed copy of the disclosures for 3 years after the lease begins.
Who is exempt
- Housing built after 1977
- Zero-bedroom units (efficiencies, lofts, dorms), unless a child under 6 lives or is expected to live there
- Leases of 100 days or less with no renewal or extension
- Housing for the elderly or people with disabilities, unless a child under 6 lives or is expected to live there
- Housing tested by a certified inspector or risk assessor and found lead-based-paint free
- Foreclosure sales
Sending disclosures electronically
You can, but you must get the renter's consent, tell them they have the right to paper copies, explain how to withdraw consent, and explain how to access and keep the electronic records. EPA
Do I have to test before renting?
Not under the federal disclosure rule. Renters can ask for an inspection, but landlords and property managers are not required to do one by this rule. EPA Some states and cities do require inspections or certificates. See rental lead rules by state.
What if you skip it?
A landlord, property manager or agent who does not give renters the required information may be subject to EPA penalties, and renters can report it to EPA. EPA
Doing repairs or painting in a pre-1978 rental? Read the EPA RRP rule for landlords.
New for 2026: EPA revised the lead pamphlet. See what changed and whether you need the new one.
FAQ
Do landlords have to disclose lead paint?
Yes, for most housing built before 1978. Before the lease is signed, give the EPA lead pamphlet, disclose known lead-based paint and hazards, provide available records and reports, include a Lead Warning Statement, and keep signed copies for 3 years (EPA).
Which rentals are exempt from the lead disclosure rule?
Housing built after 1977, zero-bedroom units and elderly or disability housing (unless a child under 6 lives or is expected to live there), leases of 100 days or less with no renewal, housing certified lead-based-paint free, and foreclosure sales (EPA).
How long must a landlord keep lead disclosure forms?
3 years after the lease begins (EPA).
Sources checked Oct. 26, 2026.
Not legal advice. LeadSafeRules summarizes official city, state and federal sources for information only. Rules, fees and deadlines change, so confirm with the official source before relying on this.
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