Do all Alabama rental homes have to provide a lead paint disclosure?

Only rentals built before 1978 must provide the official lead paint disclosure form and EPA pamphlet.

What should I do if my landlord does not give me the required lead paint form?

Request the form in writing, and report to HUD or Alabama Department of Public Health if refused.

Can I break my lease if my landlord does not address lead hazards?

After proper notice, you may terminate your lease under Alabama law if hazards are unaddressed.

How do I report a lead hazard in my Alabama rental?

Contact the Alabama Department of Public Health Lead Program or your local county health department.

Lead Paint Safety: Alabama Renters’ Rights and Steps

Health & Safety Standards Alabama published: June 21, 2025

Living in an older Alabama rental home brings unique responsibilities and risks, including concerns about lead-based paint hazards. As a renter, it’s important to understand your protections, your landlord’s obligations, and how to take action to keep your family safe from lead exposure. Federal and state laws ensure you are informed and have recourse if lead hazards are present in your rental unit.

Lead-Based Paint in Alabama Rental Housing

Homes and apartments built before 1978 in Alabama are more likely to contain lead-based paint. Lead exposure can lead to serious health problems, especially for young children and pregnant women. Federal law requires landlords to provide specific disclosures and information about lead-based paint hazards when renting out pre-1978 properties.^[1]

What Are Landlords Required to Do?

Landlords in Alabama must follow federal lead-based paint regulations and state landlord-tenant laws. Here’s what they must provide when renting:

EPA-approved pamphlet: A copy of the EPA’s "Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home" booklet.
Disclosure form: Notification of known lead-based paint hazards in the property using the official "Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form for Rental Properties" (HUD Form 9548-E).
All records and reports: Any available reports or records about lead-based paint or hazards in the unit.

These disclosures must be provided before you sign the lease for any home or apartment built before 1978.

Recognizing Lead-Based Paint Hazards

Common signs of lead hazards in older Alabama rentals include:

Chipping or peeling paint, particularly around windows, doors, and walls
Accumulated paint dust or debris on sills and floors
Renovation or repair work that disturbs painted surfaces

If you observe any of these in a pre-1978 property, take extra caution, especially with young children present.

Your Right to Know and Take Action

As a renter, you have the right to receive written disclosures and safety information. If your landlord fails to provide the official forms or withholds known information about lead, you can take steps to address the situation under both federal law and Alabama’s rental statutes.

Using Official Lead Disclosure Forms

Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form for Rental Properties (HUD Form 9548-E): Landlords must give you this form before lease signing if the property was built before 1978. As a renter, always review and keep a copy. If you suspect you didn’t receive one, you can ask your landlord in writing to comply. Access the official form and information at the HUD lead disclosure page.
How to use it: For example, if you're about to sign a lease for a 1960s-era rental house and do not receive the disclosure form or EPA pamphlet, remind your landlord of their obligation. If they still refuse, you may contact the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) or the Alabama Department of Public Health for support.

How to Report a Lead Hazard or Noncompliance

If you’re concerned about lead paint hazards or if disclosure requirements aren’t met, there are steps you can take to protect your rights:

Document and photograph visible hazards (chipping paint, dust, repairs)
Send your landlord a written request for disclosure or repairs
If issues aren’t addressed, file a complaint with the Alabama Department of Public Health Lead Program or the EPA Lead Program
You can also contact your local county health department for advice or inspections

The official government body handling housing disputes in Alabama is the Alabama Unified Judicial System – District Court. For severe violations, you may wish to seek legal advice or file a claim under Alabama’s landlord-tenant laws.^[2]

If you feel your child has been exposed to lead, contact your local health department or pediatrician immediately for testing and safety guidance.

Understanding Alabama Tenant Laws and Lead Paint Protections

Alabama’s landlord-tenant rights are governed by the Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.^[2] This law protects your right to a safe living environment. If your landlord refuses to address confirmed lead hazards, you may have the right to withhold rent or terminate your lease after following proper legal procedures (seek legal advice before proceeding).

Frequently Asked Questions about Lead Paint in Alabama Rentals

Do all Alabama rental homes have to provide a lead paint disclosure?
Only rentals built before 1978 must provide the official lead paint disclosure form and EPA pamphlet. Newer homes are exempt.
What should I do if my landlord does not give me the required lead paint form?
Request the form in writing. If they refuse, you can report the violation to the HUD or the Alabama Department of Public Health, and consider seeking legal advice.
How can I tell if there is lead paint in my rental?
Look for signs like chipping, peeling paint, or dust in homes built before 1978. Only certified testing can confirm the presence of lead.
Can I break my lease if my landlord does not address lead hazards?
Under Alabama law, you may be able to terminate your lease if your landlord fails to provide a safe environment after proper notice and legal procedures.
Where do I file a complaint if I suspect my landlord is violating lead disclosure laws?
Contact the Alabama Department of Public Health Lead Program or file in District Court under the Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.

Key Takeaways for Alabama Renters

Landlords must provide lead paint disclosures and safety pamphlets for homes built before 1978
Report unaddressed lead hazards or lack of disclosure to the Alabama Department of Public Health or EPA
You are protected by both federal lead laws and the Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Alabama Department of Public Health – Lead Program: Lead hazard complaints, testing, and information
Alabama Unified Judicial System – District Court: Tribunal for landlord-tenant legal actions
EPA Lead Program: Reporting, disclosure rules, and renter resources
HUD Lead Disclosure Enforcement: Tenant complaint information

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, "Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Rule" (24 CFR Part 35; 40 CFR Part 745)
Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act