Kentucky Residential Lease Disclosure Requirements Explained

Before you sign a rental agreement in Kentucky, it's important to know what information your landlord must give you. The law requires certain disclosures—facts about your home, your landlord’s identity, and any known issues with the property—that help you make informed decisions and ensure your rights are protected throughout your tenancy.

What Must Be Disclosed in Kentucky Residential Leases?

Landlords in Kentucky are legally required to provide renters with specific information at the start of a tenancy. These disclosures are set by the Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA), which covers cities and counties that have adopted it.^[1]

• Landlord and Agent Identification: The landlord must state the name and address of the person authorized to manage the property and receive notices or legal papers. This lets renters know who to contact for repairs, emergencies, or issues.
• Move-In/Move-Out Inspection Checklist: If a security deposit is collected, the landlord must provide a complete list of any existing damage to the property at move-in, and a written statement of charges at move-out. This is critical for protecting your deposit.
• Security Deposit Location: By law, security deposits must be kept in a separate account at a federally insured institution. Landlords are required to disclose the name and address of this bank or institution.
• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure: For units built before 1978, federal law requires landlords to provide an EPA-approved lead paint disclosure form.
• Utilities Information: If utilities are shared or included in rent, you should be told how billing works or if meters are shared with other units.

Required Forms and How They Affect Renters

• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form (EPA form):
  EPA Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form (no state-specific number).
  Use: This form must be given before you sign a lease for any property built before 1978. For example, if you’re moving into a 1950s apartment, your landlord must provide and have you sign this form.
  Official source: EPA Real Estate Disclosure page
• Move-In/Move-Out Inspection Checklist:
  Use: Not standardized statewide, but landlords must provide a written checklist of property condition when collecting a security deposit. For example, you should walk through the unit with your landlord and note any damage or missing items before moving in, then both sign the checklist. This protects your right to your deposit when you leave.
  Official guidance: See Kentucky Attorney General - Landlord/Tenant Resources

More Details on Kentucky Lease Disclosure Laws

Some cities and counties in Kentucky have adopted the URLTA laws, which expand protections for renters. Even in areas outside URLTA, the state mandates certain disclosures, especially about lead paint and deposits.

• If a landlord fails to make the required disclosures, renters may have grounds to challenge charges or penalties later.
• Always keep copies of any forms, checklists, or notices you receive or sign.

Who Oversees Rental Law and Complaints in Kentucky?

The Kentucky Attorney General’s Office – Consumer Protection Division provides official landlord-tenant guidance and enforces parts of Kentucky’s rental laws. There is not a statewide landlord-tenant tribunal, but complaints may be made here or, in some areas, local housing authorities or small claims court.

FAQ: Kentucky Lease Disclosures for Renters

1. What happens if the landlord doesn't provide the move-in checklist?
   If a deposit is collected and the landlord doesn’t give you a move-in checklist, they may lose the right to withhold your deposit for damages (outside of normal wear and tear) when you move out.
2. Do all Kentucky landlords have to disclose lead paint hazards?
   Yes, federal law requires all landlords of pre-1978 properties to provide a lead-based paint disclosure form.
3. How can a renter request disclosure details from a landlord?
   It’s best to ask in writing (email or letter). If you don’t get a required disclosure, gently remind your landlord that the Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act requires it in covered areas.
4. Are these disclosure laws statewide?
   Some disclosures, like lead paint, are federal and statewide. Some lease rules such as written checklists for deposits apply only in cities or counties that have adopted the URLTA.
5. What if the rental agreement is missing required disclosures?
   This can affect your rights. For example, it may restrict your landlord’s ability to keep part of your deposit or enforce certain lease terms.

Conclusion: What Kentucky Renters Should Remember

• Landlords must share key information by law—always request and keep important documents.
• A move-in inspection and proper disclosures help protect your security deposit.
• Contact the Kentucky Attorney General’s office for support with unresolved issues.

Knowing disclosure rules gives you more confidence throughout your lease—don’t hesitate to ask questions and document your correspondence with your landlord.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Kentucky Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Resources – Official forms, complaint process, and legal guidance.
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Kentucky Resources
• EPA Lead-Based Paint Disclosure details and forms

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1. Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA) – KRS Chapter 383
2. Kentucky Attorney General – Landlord/Tenant Resources
3. EPA: Lead-Based Paint Disclosure

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