If you have your heart set on moving into a historic home, you may need to consider the impact that it could have on your health. You should know what information your potential landlord or home seller should disclose to you about lead-based paint prior to signing a lease or mortgage agreement.
The law regarding lead disclosure
For decades, it has been well-documented that lead paint and lead dust coming from the paint can cause health challenges. Federal law requires that those who buy or move into homes built before 1978 receive information on any known lead or lead byproducts in the house. Essentially, you should receive the following at minimum:
- The property owner should provide any information regarding the status of lead or lead-based paint risks in the home or building.
- Landlords and home sellers must disclose any lead in the home. This information is usually provided to you along with your formal contract.
- You should obtain a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency-approved informational pamphlet on how to find and control any lead-based paint problems in the home.
You will want to make sure that you receive these notifications to protect yourself and the ones you love. If you do not, real estate disputes can ensue.
How to handle a lead-based paint issue
If you have concerns that the home you would like to rent or purchase has lead, you may wish to contact an attorney as this could lead to real estate disputes. By engaging with a lawyer prior to a real estate negotiation, you may better understand your rights and get all the relevant information on any lead in the home before signing a contract.
Moving into an older home means making sure that there are no health hazards from lead-based paint. Knowing more about the legal disclosure requirements and retaining an attorney might help prevent you or your loved ones from becoming unnecessarily sick.