Missouri Renters: Lead Paint Disclosure Laws & Rights

As a renter in Missouri, understanding your rights when it comes to lead paint and rental unit hazard disclosures is critical for your health and safety. Landlords must follow both federal and state laws to make sure you are informed about the presence of lead-based paint hazards, especially if you’re moving into an older property.

When Are Missouri Landlords Required to Disclose Lead Hazards?

If you rent a property built before 1978, your landlord must give you specific information about lead-based paint and any known hazards before you sign the lease. This rule protects renters, especially children and pregnant women, from the harmful effects of lead exposure.

• Applies to almost all residential rentals built before 1978
• Landlords must disclose any known information about lead-based paint or hazards
• Landlords must provide a federally approved lead hazard brochure

Missouri enforces these requirements under both federal law and state regulations. These mandatory disclosures are designed to ensure renters can make informed decisions about their homes.

Required Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Forms in Missouri

Before you sign your rental agreement, landlords of pre-1978 housing must provide two key documents:

• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form (EPA/HUD Form)
  When used: Before you sign a lease for any housing built before 1978, your landlord must complete this form and share it with you. It confirms both parties have received the necessary information about lead paint risks and any known hazards.
  Download the official Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form (EPA/HUD).
• Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home Brochure (EPA)
  When used: This booklet must be given to all renters of pre-1978 housing along with the disclosure form. It provides clear information about lead dangers and how families can minimize exposure.
  Access the brochure on the EPA website.

Be sure to request these documents if you do not receive them before signing your lease. Signing an acknowledgment helps ensure your landlord is meeting their legal disclosure duties.

What Information Must Be Disclosed?

Your landlord’s disclosure must answer these key questions:

• Were any known lead-based paint or lead hazards found in the property?
• Has the property been inspected for lead?
• Are there any records or reports regarding lead-based paint available?

The disclosure is not just a formality—it is your right under the law to receive truthful information so you can make informed decisions about your health and living environment.

Legal Protections and Your Rights in Missouri

As a Missouri renter, your protections regarding lead paint are enforced by federal and state law. If your landlord fails to provide the required disclosures, you may have grounds for legal action or to break your lease without penalty.

• Missouri follows the Missouri Landlord-Tenant Law, which incorporates both state and federal health and safety standards.
• The main tribunal for disputes involving renters and landlords is the Missouri Judiciary (Missouri Courts). Rental disputes are typically heard in county Circuit Courts.

Special Circumstances: Renovations and Repairs

If your landlord or property manager is planning repairs or renovations that disturb paint in a pre-1978 rental, they have additional obligations under the EPA’s Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule. You must be notified about the work, and only certified contractors may be used.

What to Do If You Suspect Lead Hazards

If you believe there may be lead paint or lead dust hazards in your home, you can:

• Request copies of any lead inspection reports from your landlord
• Contact your city or county health department for free lead testing
• File a complaint with the EPA’s Missouri Office if the landlord does not follow disclosure rules
• Take legal action through the Missouri courts if serious hazards exist or if disclosure requirements are ignored

You have the right to a safe and healthy home. Prompt action protects your family and helps enforce Missouri’s robust lead paint disclosure protections.

FAQ: Missouri Rental Lead Paint Disclosures

1. What happens if my landlord doesn’t give me the lead paint disclosure form?
   If your landlord fails to provide the required disclosure, you may be able to break your lease, seek damages, or file a complaint with state or federal authorities. Always keep a record of your communications and ask for the documentation.
2. Is the lead paint disclosure required for all rental homes in Missouri?
   No, disclosure is only required for residential properties built before 1978. Homes built after that year are exempt, as lead-based paints were banned for residential use.
3. Can I ask for a lead inspection before renting?
   Yes, you are encouraged to ask for inspection reports and may request that the landlord allow a certified professional to inspect the unit for lead hazards before moving in, especially if children will live in the unit.
4. Where can I get the EPA lead paint disclosure form?
   You can access the official lead disclosure form from the EPA’s website. Landlords are responsible for filling it out and sharing it with you before lease signing.
5. What if lead paint is found after I move in?
   If dangerous lead paint is found after moving in, contact your landlord right away and your local health department. If the hazard isn’t addressed, you can file a complaint or seek remedies through the Missouri courts.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Missouri Renters

• Renters in pre-1978 rentals must receive a lead disclosure form and safety brochure before signing a lease.
• If you do not get the required information, you can take action through local health offices or the Missouri courts for your protection.
• Knowing your rights helps you ensure a healthy living environment and assert your legal protections in Missouri.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Missouri Courts: Landlord-Tenant Law Resources
• EPA Lead Paint Safety Main Page
• Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services: Lead Hazards for Tenants
• Contact your local legal aid office for free or low-cost tenant advocacy services
• For official forms or guidance, visit the EPA Lead Brochure Online

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1. For Missouri landlord-tenant law, visit the Missouri Revised Statutes, Chapter 441.
2. Federal lead paint disclosure requirements: see EPA’s Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Overview.
3. Get the official lead disclosure form from the EPA website.
4. For full tenants’ rights information, visit the Missouri Courts—Landlord-Tenant Law page.
5. Health and inspection queries: MO DHSS Lead—Tenants and Landlords.

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