The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently released an updated version of its lead hazard pamphlet, titled “Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home."
The Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act requires sellers and landlords to provide buyers and tenants with:
- A lead-based paint disclosure form
- Any known records or reports of lead hazards, and
- The EPA-approved lead hazard pamphlet
These requirements apply to most residential properties built before 1978 (when lead-based paint was banned). EPA does not require users to discard older versions of the document. EPA encourages users to exhaust their existing stock prior to printing copies of the new version.
The updated pamphlet includes information on new lead health standards, including:
- Revised dust-lead hazard and action levels;
- Updated terminology and definitions related to lead abatement; and
- Expanded guidance on identifying and managing lead exposure risks.
The requirement to provide this pamphlet applies broadly to pre-1978 housing, including single-family residences, rentals, multifamily buildings and condominium units leased by owners. The disclosure form and pamphlet are required regardless of whether lead hazards are known to exist.
Download the EPA's Lead Hazard Pamphlet
Visit NAR's Lead-Based topic page to learn more.