Connecticut Lead Paint Disclosure Rules for Renters

As a Connecticut renter, it's important to understand the protections you have regarding lead paint and hazardous conditions in your home. Both federal and state laws require landlords to disclose certain hazards before you move in. Knowing your rights can help you make safer choices for you and your family.

Why Lead Paint Disclosures Matter in Connecticut Rentals

Lead-based paint was commonly used in homes built before 1978. Exposure, especially for children or pregnant women, can cause lead poisoning and serious health problems. Because of this, Connecticut law—alongside federal regulations—requires landlords to inform renters about any known lead hazards before you sign a lease.

What Must Connecticut Landlords Disclose?

Connecticut landlords must comply with both federal lead disclosure rules and state requirements. This typically applies to residential rental properties built before 1978.

• Disclose any known presence of lead-based paint or hazards in the home.
• Provide renters with the EPA’s Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home information pamphlet.
• Include lead warning statements in the lease or rental agreement.
• Disclose any available reports or records about lead-based paint on the property.

Failure to provide this information can result in penalties for the landlord and may give tenants certain legal rights, including the right to cancel a lease or pursue damages.

Required Lead Disclosure Form for Connecticut Renters

Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form (EPA/HUD Form)

• Form Name: Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (Form EPA 747-K-99-001)
• When is it used? Landlords must give you this form before you sign a lease or rental agreement for any building constructed before 1978.
• Renter Example: If you’re about to move into an older New Haven apartment, your landlord should hand you this form outlining any known lead hazards—and you must get a copy of the EPA lead information booklet.

The official disclosure form must be signed by both the landlord and tenant and kept on file.

Who Oversees Lead and Hazard Disclosures in Connecticut?

In Connecticut, tenant and landlord disputes related to disclosures and housing conditions are generally handled by the local housing courts. The main state tribunal for residential tenancy issues is the Connecticut Superior Court—Housing Session. If you face a health or safety risk in your rental unit, certain issues can also be reported to the Connecticut Department of Public Health.

All of these rules are backed by federal law (the Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Rule) and Connecticut’s state landlord-tenant statute, the Connecticut General Statutes Chapter 831: Landlord and Tenant.¹

What Should You Do if Suspecting a Lead Hazard?

If you think your rental has a lead hazard and you weren’t properly notified, you can:

• Contact your landlord in writing to request disclosure and remediation.
• File a complaint with your local health department's lead program.
• Contact the Connecticut Department of Public Health or your local housing court for support.

Always keep copies of your communications and any forms or pamphlets you receive.

Key Action Steps for Connecticut Renters

• Ask your landlord for the "Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form" if your building was built before 1978.
• Review the EPA lead safety pamphlet before moving in.
• Keep all signed disclosure forms and pamphlets for your records.
• Report concerns to your local health or housing authority if you believe disclosure rules haven’t been followed.

FAQ: Connecticut Lead Paint Disclosures for Renters

1. What if my landlord doesn’t provide a lead paint disclosure?
   If your landlord fails to provide the required disclosure or EPA pamphlet, you can report the issue to your local health department or Housing Session of the Connecticut Superior Court. It may also allow you to cancel the lease, withhold rent, or pursue other legal remedies, especially if you later discover a lead hazard.
2. Does every Connecticut rental need a lead paint disclosure?
   No. Only rental properties built before 1978 require this disclosure. For newer buildings, this form and pamphlet are not mandatory.
3. Can I request lead testing before I move in?
   Yes, you have the right to request a lead hazard inspection. Under federal law, you are allowed 10 days to conduct your own testing or inspection after receiving the paperwork.
4. What official form should I receive concerning lead paint?
   You should receive the EPA/HUD Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form (EPA 747-K-99-001), signed by both you and your landlord, along with the EPA safety brochure.
5. Who can I contact for help if I’m concerned about lead hazards?
   Contact your local health department, the Connecticut Department of Public Health, or the Housing Session of the Connecticut Superior Court for help and guidance.

Conclusion

• Connecticut law protects renters by requiring landlords to disclose known lead hazards in rentals built before 1978.
• Always receive—and keep—the signed Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form and safety pamphlet prior to moving in.
• If you suspect violations, take action with local health authorities or the Housing Court for support.

Knowing your rights about lead paint disclosures keeps you and your loved ones safe and empowered in your rental home.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Connecticut Department of Public Health: For reporting health and lead issues.
• Connecticut Superior Court—Housing Session: Tribunal for housing and landlord-tenant matters.
• Connecticut Lead Program (DPH): State lead information and complaint contacts.
• HUD Lead Disclosure Information: Federal disclosure rules and resources.

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1. Connecticut General Statutes Chapter 831: Landlord and Tenant
2. Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Rule (EPA)
3. Connecticut Lead Poisoning Prevention and Control
4. Connecticut Superior Court—Housing Session

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