Colorado Lead Paint Disclosure Rules for Renters

Before moving into a rental property in Colorado, it's important to know your rights when it comes to lead-based paint and other potential hazards. State and federal laws require landlords to give renters clear disclosures about lead paint in many homes built before 1978. This article explains what information you should receive, what disclosures to expect, and which official forms are involved.

Why Lead Paint Disclosures Matter

Lead-based paint, commonly used in homes before 1978, can pose serious health risks, especially to children and pregnant individuals. The federal Lead Disclosure Rule applies to most rental housing built before 1978. Colorado law also supports these requirements to help keep renters informed and protected.

What Your Landlord Must Disclose About Lead Paint

If you're renting a home or apartment in Colorado built before 1978, your landlord is required to provide:

• The EPA-approved lead hazard information pamphlet "Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home".
• Any known information about the presence of lead-based paint or hazards in the property.
• A disclosure form signed by both landlord and renter, confirming these facts and acknowledging receipt of the pamphlet.

These rules apply to most residential tenancies, but there are some exceptions, such as very short-term rentals or certain types of housing.

Required Federal Lead Disclosure Form

Landlords must use the official form:

• Form Name: Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (Rental) Form (EPA Form 747-K-0011)
• When and How It's Used: This form must be provided before you sign a lease for any home built before 1978. Both landlord and renter sign it. For example, if you're applying to rent a 1960s apartment, the landlord should give you this form along with the lease documents. If they don’t, you can request it or report the issue to housing authorities.

Other Hazard Disclosures and Inspections

While lead paint is the most strictly regulated hazard, Colorado law also covers disclosures about other known environmental or safety dangers. Landlords must notify tenants in writing if they’re aware of hazards such as asbestos, mold, or radon. Although no specific state-mandated forms exist for these hazards, written notice is required under Colorado law.

Legislation and Enforcement in Colorado

• The federal Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Regulations (Section 1018 of Title X) set minimum standards nationwide.
• Colorado’s main landlord-tenant law is the Colorado Revised Statutes Title 38, Article 12 - Colorado Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.

If your landlord fails to meet these disclosure requirements, you may have legal options including filing complaints with the appropriate government agency or seeking assistance from renter advocacy services.

What If a Disclosure Wasn't Provided?

If your landlord does not provide the lead-paint disclosure, you can:

• Request the disclosure form and pamphlet in writing.
• Contact the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment (CDPHE) Lead Program to report missing disclosures.
• File a complaint with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) if your landlord repeatedly refuses to provide disclosures.

It's always wise to keep copies of all signed forms and communications for your records.

Which Tribunal Handles Tenant Disputes in Colorado?

Although Colorado does not have a single "board" for tenant-landlord matters, the Colorado County Courts handle residential tenancy disputes, including violations of disclosure law.

FAQ

1. Who must receive a lead paint disclosure in Colorado rentals?
   Any renter signing a lease for a dwelling built before 1978 must receive a lead paint disclosure form and the EPA hazard pamphlet before moving in.
2. What should I do if my landlord refuses to provide the lead hazard form?
   Request the form in writing, explaining your rights, and if it's not provided, reach out to the CDPHE Lead Program or HUD for further help.
3. Are there penalties for landlords who don't follow lead disclosure rules?
   Yes, landlords could face significant fines and may be liable for damages if they fail to give proper disclosures to tenants.
4. What is the official lead paint disclosure form called?
   The official document is the Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (Rental) - EPA Form 747-K-0011.
5. Does Colorado require additional hazard disclosures?
   Yes, landlords must also alert tenants, in writing, to any known environmental or health hazards related to the property, such as asbestos or mold.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• If you rent a home built before 1978 in Colorado, lead paint disclosure is required by law.
• Always request and keep copies of all lead-paint disclosure forms and pamphlets received.
• If your rights are not respected, you can reach out to state or federal agencies for support.

Staying informed about lead-based paint and hazard disclosures helps you make safe choices and protect your rights as a renter in Colorado.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Colorado

• Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment Lead Program: Get information or file a complaint about lead hazards in rental housing.
• EPA Lead Information: Find official guides and contact details for national lead regulations.
• U.S. HUD: File a Housing Complaint
• Colorado County Housing Courts: For disputes related to housing or rental rights.
• Colorado Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (CRS 38-12)

---

1. See: Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Regulations (Section 1018 of Title X)
2. Official Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Rental Form (EPA Form 747-K-0011): EPA PDF Download
3. Colorado Revised Statutes: Title 38, Article 12: Colorado Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
4. Tribunal/Dispute Resolution: Colorado County Housing Courts
5. State hazard info: Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment – Lead in Paint

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations