Massachusetts Rental Lead Paint Disclosure Rules Explained

If you’re renting a home in Massachusetts, understanding lead paint and hazard disclosure requirements is essential. State and federal laws protect renters—especially families with young children—from the serious health risks of lead exposure. This article explains what your landlord must provide, the forms involved, and your options if you believe disclosures were incomplete or missing.

Why Lead Paint Disclosures Matter in Massachusetts

Many Massachusetts rental properties were built before 1978, when the use of lead-based paint was banned in homes. Lead is especially dangerous for children and pregnant people, causing developmental and health issues. Because of these risks, landlords have specific disclosure duties, and renters have rights to vital information before moving in.^[1]

Landlord Disclosure Duties: What Renters Must Receive

Your landlord is legally required to:

• Disclose any known information about lead paint or lead hazards in the unit
• Provide copies of any lead inspection or risk assessment reports that exist
• Give you a federally required EPA pamphlet about lead exposure in homes
• For units built before 1978, have you sign the official Lead Paint Disclosure form

If you move into a property built before 1978 and don't receive the required disclosures, your landlord may be violating both federal and Massachusetts state law.

Key Required Forms for Renters

• Lead Paint Disclosure Form (Massachusetts Tenant Lead Law Notification): Must be provided before you sign a lease for any unit built before 1978. This form alerts you to potential lead hazards and documents what the landlord knows about existing lead paint.
  Official source: Tenant Lead Law Notification and Certification (Form 6) from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.
  Practical example: Your landlord should give you this form and ask you to sign it before lease signing. Make sure to request a copy for your records.
• EPA Pamphlet: Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home: A federally required booklet explaining lead risks and safe practices.
  Provided by your landlord before you sign any lease in a pre-1978 property.
  View and download from: EPA Protect Your Family from Lead Pamphlet.
• Lead Inspection Reports (if available): If the property was ever inspected for lead, your landlord must give you copies of those reports.
  Learn about inspections at: Massachusetts Lead Inspection Reports Information.

Your Rights and Landlord Obligations Under Massachusetts Law

Massachusetts law is especially protective of renters with children under six. If a child under six will live in the rental, the landlord must remove or cover lead hazards, regardless of cost.^[2]

• It is illegal for a landlord to refuse to rent to you because you have (or expect) young children.
• Property owners may not evict you or refuse to renew your lease because of lead law requirements.
• If your landlord does not comply, you may report them to the state for investigation.

What to Do if Disclosures Were Not Provided

If your landlord fails to provide required forms or disclosures:

• Request the missing information in writing and keep a copy.
• Contact the Massachusetts Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program (CLPPP) for support.
• If your child has elevated blood lead levels or if you face discrimination, you can file a complaint with agencies like the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination or with your local housing authority.

The main tribunal overseeing rental disputes in Massachusetts is the Massachusetts Housing Court.

FAQ: Massachusetts Lead Paint Disclosure Rules

1. Do all Massachusetts rentals require a lead paint disclosure?
   Landlords must provide disclosures for all residential rentals built before 1978, regardless of whether they believe lead paint is present.
2. What should I do if I find peeling paint but never received lead info?
   Contact your landlord in writing and reach out to your local Board of Health or the CLPPP for a lead inspection. You are protected against retaliation.
3. Can my landlord refuse to rent to me because I have children?
   No. This is illegal under state law. Landlords must comply with lead laws regardless of your family status.
4. Is there a penalty if the landlord fails to give lead disclosures?
   Yes. Landlords can face legal penalties, including damages, and may lose the right to use certain defenses in eviction cases.
5. Where can I get official information or file a complaint?
   The Massachusetts Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program and Housing Court provide official resources and complaint procedures (see resources below).

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Renters

Massachusetts has strict lead paint disclosure laws to keep renters safe. Here’s what to remember:

• Always receive the required lead paint/lead hazard forms and pamphlets before signing a lease on older properties
• Landlords must not discriminate against families with children under six
• If you notice hazards or missing paperwork, you have the right to contact state agencies for help

Being informed about your rights helps ensure a healthier, safer home for you and your family.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Massachusetts Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program (CLPPP): Lead disclosures, laws, and complaint support
• Massachusetts Housing Court: For disputes, complaints, and tenant protections
• A Guide to the Massachusetts Residential Lead Law: Comprehensive overview and resources
• Tenant Lead Law Notification and Certification Form: Official form for renters and landlords

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1. Federal Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Rule (EPA)
2. Massachusetts Lead Law - M.G.L. c.111, § 197
3. A Guide to the Massachusetts Residential Lead Law (Mass.gov)
4. Massachusetts Housing Court

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