Background

Until it was found to have adverse effects on human health, particularly on the health of children , lead-based paint was used in many homes and apartment units in the U.S. To reduce exposure to lead-based paint hazards, Congress enacted the Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act in 1992 (Title X of Public Law 102-550).

This law requires sellers to disclose the existence of any known lead-based paint in pre-1978 residential properties, and to disclose the results of any previous testing for lead-based paint. As a result, Title X created additional responsibilities for real estate agents and brokers and property managers in sales and lease transactions by requiring them to facilitate disclosure of this information and to ensure the buyer receives and reviews the relevant information on lead-based paint hazards.