Do all Kentucky rentals require lead paint disclosures?

Only properties built before 1978 are required to share lead paint disclosures. Newer buildings do not fall under this requirement.

What should I do if my landlord refuses to give me the required forms?

Request them in writing and keep copies. If the landlord still does not comply, contact the Kentucky Department for Public Health or your local District Court.

Can I terminate my lease if lead hazards are found?

Depending on the severity and landlord response, you might be able to seek lease termination through court. Always document issues and seek advice first.

Are there criminal penalties for landlords who don't provide disclosures?

Landlords may face civil penalties and damages under federal law, but criminal penalties are rare unless there's intentional harm.

Where do I get the official lead paint disclosure form?

The EPA provides the federal form online. Your landlord should give you a signed copy at lease signing, or you can download it from the EPA website.

Lead Paint Disclosure Rules for Kentucky Renters

Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Kentucky published: June 21, 2025

When moving into a rental home or apartment in Kentucky, it's important to know your rights about lead paint and other hazards. Federal and state laws require landlords to disclose any known presence of lead-based paint in properties built before 1978. Protecting your health and ensuring safe living conditions starts with understanding these disclosure rules and the steps you can take if they are not met.

What Are Lead Paint Disclosures and Why Do They Matter?

Lead-based paint was commonly used in homes before 1978. Lead exposure is especially dangerous for children and pregnant women, potentially causing long-term health and development problems. Federal law, through the Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act (Title X), requires landlords to give specific disclosures and information about lead paint in rental properties built before 1978.^[1]

Which Kentucky Rental Properties Require Lead Paint Disclosures?

Any house, apartment, or unit built before 1978 (where lead-based paint was likely used)
All leases and renewals for affected properties
Some exceptions apply, such as for short-term rentals (less than 100 days) or single rooms within residential housing

If you're not sure about your building's age, ask your landlord or check local property records to confirm.

What a Landlord Must Disclose

Under federal law, Kentucky landlords must provide:

A federally-approved lead hazard information pamphlet ("Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home")
Disclosure of known information on lead-based paint and hazards in the property
Any available records or reports about previous lead tests or hazard controls
Attachment of a Lead Warning Statement to your new lease, which both you and the landlord must sign

Required Forms and Where to Find Them

Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form (EPA Form)
When and how to use: Used at lease signing for any rental built before 1978. Both the landlord and each renter must sign this form acknowledging receipt of information and pamphlet. For example, when you are about to sign your apartment lease, your landlord must present this form and provide copies for your records.
Official EPA Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form
Pamphlet: Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home
When and how to use: The landlord must provide this pamphlet to every new tenant of a pre-1978 property before move-in. If you did not receive this with your lease package, you can access it and ask the landlord for a copy.
Official EPA Lead Safety Pamphlet

What If Your Landlord Did Not Provide Lead Paint Disclosures?

If you move in without receiving the required disclosures for a pre-1978 Kentucky rental, you have legal protections. You may:

Ask your landlord in writing for the disclosure forms and pamphlet
Contact your local health department or consult the Kentucky Department for Public Health for support
If hazards are present, request an inspection or testing (contact your local agency)
Seek remedies under federal law, including possible damages through civil court, if disclosures are intentionally withheld

If you believe your landlord is not following lead disclosure rules, document your concerns and communication in writing. This documentation can help if you need assistance from a government agency or seek legal advice.

Additional Kentucky Hazard Disclosure Requirements

Currently, Kentucky does not impose extra requirements for lead-based paint disclosures beyond federal law. However, under the Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA) (where adopted), landlords must maintain a habitable and safe dwelling.^[2]

What Agency Handles Rental Disputes?

In Kentucky, the official body for residential tenancy matters is usually your local District Court. If you live in a city or county that has adopted URLTA (such as Lexington or Louisville), you can find guidance at local housing departments or clerk’s offices.

Steps to Take If You Suspect Lead or Disclosure Issues

Check if your building is pre-1978 through property tax or county records
Ask the landlord for disclosure forms and lead pamphlet if you haven’t received them
Contact the Kentucky Department for Public Health for information about inspections or testing
If necessary, file a complaint with local authorities or consult the District Court for further action

Staying proactive helps safeguard your rights and creates a safer living environment.

FAQ: Kentucky Lead Paint Disclosures for Renters

Do all Kentucky rentals require lead paint disclosures?
Only properties built before 1978 are required to share lead paint disclosures. Newer buildings do not fall under this requirement.
What should I do if my landlord refuses to give me the required forms?
Request them in writing and keep copies for your records. If the landlord still does not comply, contact the Kentucky Department for Public Health or your local District Court.
Can I terminate my lease if lead hazards are found?
Depending on the severity, unsafe conditions, and landlord response, you may be able to seek lease termination through court action. Document all issues and get professional advice first.
Are there criminal penalties for landlords who don't provide disclosures?
Landlords may face civil penalties under federal law, including monetary damages, for failing to disclose, but criminal penalties are rare unless there is intentional harm or repeated violations.
Where do I get the official lead paint disclosure form?
The EPA provides the federal form online. Your landlord should give you a signed copy at lease signing, or you can find it on the EPA website.

Key Takeaways for Kentucky Renters

Landlords must provide lead paint disclosures and a safety pamphlet for all rentals built before 1978
You have the right to request these documents and to a safe, habitable home
Contact state or local authorities if your landlord does not comply with disclosure rules

Remember: Knowing your rights helps keep you and your family safe, especially when it comes to environmental hazards.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Kentucky Department for Public Health – Lead Poisoning Prevention: Information, inspections, and support on lead hazards
EPA Lead Information: National rules and resources for renters
Kentucky District Courts: Handles residential tenancy disputes
HUD – Tenant Lead Hazard Enforcement: Report unsafe lead conditions in rental housing
Kentucky Housing Corporation Renters Resources: General support for renters in Kentucky