Maine Rental Lead Paint Disclosure Rules Explained

Understanding lead paint and hazard disclosure requirements is important for any renter moving into a Maine rental, especially if the building is older. Federal and state laws ensure renters get the information they need about possible lead risks before signing a lease. This helps protect your family's health and gives you the right to make informed decisions about your next home.

What Are Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Requirements in Maine?

If your rental unit in Maine was built before 1978, your landlord must follow both federal and state rules about lead paint disclosures. This is to protect renters, especially young children, from exposure to lead, which can cause serious health problems.

• Landlords must inform tenants about known lead-based paint or lead-based paint hazards in the property.
• You must receive a copy of any reports about lead paint hazards (if available).
• The landlord must give you a specific information booklet about identifying and controlling lead-based paint hazards.
• Before you are obligated under a lease, you must sign a disclosure form acknowledging these disclosures.

Official Lead Paint Disclosure Forms

• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form (EPA Form)
  • Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form (PDF)
  • Used whenever leasing a house or apartment built before 1978. Both landlord and tenant must sign it before moving in or renewing a lease.
  • Example: If you're about to sign a lease for a 1965 apartment, your landlord gives you this form. You review the details, sign, and keep a copy for your records before renting.
• EPA Pamphlet: "Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home"
  • EPA Lead Safety Booklet
  • This federal booklet must be provided to you before you sign the lease if the unit was built before 1978.
  • Example: Your landlord includes this pamphlet with your rental application, helping you recognize what to look for regarding lead safety.

When Is Disclosure Required?

Disclosure is required any time a rental agreement is made for a property built before 1978, whether it’s a new lease or renewal, unless the property is certified lead-free by a licensed inspector.

Key Legal Protections and What to Look Out For

• Landlords cannot avoid or waive their disclosure duties by written agreement.
• Failure to disclose can result in fines, and tenants may have legal remedies.
• As a renter, you should never sign a lease for an older property unless you have received these required disclosures.

If you have not received the EPA lead disclosure form or the safety pamphlet, ask your landlord immediately or contact the Maine Office of the Attorney General for help.

Maine Tenant Rights Tribunal and Law

Disputes about rental health, discrimination, or disclosure are generally overseen by the Maine District Court's landlord-tenant division. For guidance or complaints, you can visit the Maine Judicial Branch – Landlord/Tenant Self-Help site.

The core rules for Maine landlord-tenant relations—including health and safety obligations—are found in the Maine Revised Statutes, Title 14: Court Procedure - Civil, Chapter 709: Rental Property.

Additional Steps Renters Can Take

• If you believe your landlord did not provide the required documents, keep a written record of your communications.
• Contact your local health department or the Maine Center for Disease Control & Prevention Lead Poisoning Prevention Program with concerns.
• You may also file a complaint through the Maine Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division.

These steps help ensure your rental is safe and that you know your rights.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I have to sign a lead-based paint disclosure form for every rental in Maine?
   Only if the rental unit was built before 1978 must you and your landlord complete this disclosure. Newer constructions (post-1978) are exempt.
2. What happens if my landlord didn’t give me the EPA lead booklet?
   The landlord is breaking both state and federal law. Politely ask for the booklet, and if it is not provided, you can contact the Maine Attorney General or the local health department for assistance.
3. Are there penalties if a landlord fails to disclose lead hazards?
   Yes. Landlords can face significant fines, and renters may sue for damages or break the lease if lead paint laws are violated.
4. Can I request a lead inspection before moving in?
   Yes, you can request your landlord provide inspection reports. You may also arrange an independent inspection, although that is typically at your own expense unless required due to safety concerns.
5. Where can I get help if my child was exposed to lead in my rental?
   Contact the Maine CDC Lead Poisoning Prevention Program and your healthcare provider immediately for resources and support.

Conclusion: What Maine Renters Should Remember

• Know your right to clear, written disclosure about lead paint hazards before you rent, especially in homes built before 1978.
• Always receive, review, and keep copies of official lead disclosure forms and information booklets.
• If anything is missing or seems wrong, contact state agencies for help to protect your health and legal rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maine Judicial Branch (Landlord-Tenant Information)
• Maine CDC Lead Poisoning Prevention Program
• Maine Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division
• Maine Revised Statutes, Title 14, Chapter 709

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1. EPA Lead-Based Paint Disclosure
2. Maine Revised Statutes, Title 14: Chapter 709
3. Maine Judicial Branch Landlord/Tenant Self-Help

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