New Mexico Landlord Disclosures: What Renters Must Know Before Move-In

Before moving into a new rental home in New Mexico, renters have a right to receive specific information from their landlord. These disclosures help protect you, set expectations, and make sure both parties understand their rights and responsibilities. Knowing what your landlord must legally provide before move-in can reduce surprises and avoid future disputes.

What Are Required Landlord Disclosures in New Mexico?

New Mexico landlords must give tenants important details in writing before the tenancy starts. These disclosures are designed to keep renters informed and ensure safe, fair housing.

Essential Disclosures Landlords Must Provide

• Owner or Agent Identity: Landlords must disclose, in writing, the name, address, and phone number of the person allowed to manage the property and accept legal notices or service of process. This lets renters know whom to contact for repairs, emergencies, or official communications.^[1]
• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (for Older Properties): If the rental unit was built before 1978, federal law requires landlords to provide renters with a Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form and an EPA-approved lead hazard information pamphlet. This helps protect renters from health risks associated with lead paint.
• Copy of Lease or Rental Agreement: Tenants must receive a written copy of the lease, including all terms, rules, and any addendums.
• Move-In Condition and Inspection (Recommended): While not legally required for all rentals, providing a move-in checklist protects both parties. Tenants can request a written list or form documenting the condition of the unit at move-in to avoid security deposit disputes later.
• Notice of Renter Protections if Applicable: For certain subsidized or protected housing, renters must receive information about their additional rights under state or federal law.

Official Forms Used in New Mexico Rental Disclosures

• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form
  When to use: Required if your rental was built before 1978. Landlords give this form to all tenants when signing the lease. Tenants should review, sign, and keep a copy.
  Get the official EPA Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form
• Move-In/Move-Out Checklist
  When to use: While not required by New Mexico law, this checklist is helpful to document the unit’s condition at move-in and move-out. Ask your landlord if they have an official version or use this sample form from the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department.

Which Tribunal Handles Rental Disputes in New Mexico?

All official complaints and disputes about rental housing (including required disclosures) are handled by the New Mexico Courts – Landlord/Tenant Self-Help Center. This is your first stop if your landlord fails to provide disclosures or you have another rental issue.

Relevant State Legislation

New Mexico’s main law protecting renters is the New Mexico Uniform Owner-Resident Relations Act. Key sections on disclosures include:

• Section 47-8-19: Disclosures by landlord (owner/agent contact details)
• Section 47-8-18: Delivery of possession
• Federal law: Lead-Based Paint Hazard Disclosure (42 U.S.C. 4852d)

You can learn more about your rights or read the full law on the New Mexico Uniform Owner-Resident Relations Act website.

Action Steps for Renters: What to Do If You Don't Receive Required Disclosures

If you believe your landlord did not provide all required disclosures before move-in, you have the right to ask in writing. If the landlord still fails to comply, you may take further steps for resolution. Here’s what you can do:

• Make a written request for missing disclosures (email or letter, and keep a copy)
• If there is no response, contact the New Mexico Courts – Landlord/Tenant Self-Help Center
• Gather all documents and communications for your file
• Consider asking for help from a tenant advocacy service or legal aid

These steps ensure your rights are respected throughout your tenancy.

FAQs for Renters on New Mexico Landlord Disclosures

1. What should I do if my landlord doesn’t provide a Lead-Based Paint Disclosure?
   If your rental was built before 1978 and you don't get a Lead-Based Paint Disclosure, ask your landlord in writing. If there’s still no response, contact your local court self-help center for guidance.
2. Is my landlord required to give me a copy of the lease?
   Yes. All tenants in New Mexico must receive a written lease or rental agreement stating the terms of your tenancy.
3. Who do I contact if there is an issue with required disclosures?
   The New Mexico Courts – Landlord/Tenant Self-Help Center can guide you on next steps if your landlord fails to provide required information or forms.
4. Are there extra disclosures for subsidized or government-assisted housing?
   Yes. Landlords of subsidized housing must provide additional information about renter rights. Ask your landlord or housing agency for all applicable documents.
5. Is a move-in inspection mandatory in New Mexico?
   While not legally required statewide, it is highly recommended. You can use a move-in/move-out checklist and have both parties sign it for your security deposit protection.

Key Takeaways for New Mexico Renters

• Landlords must disclose contact details and provide certain forms before move-in.
• A Lead-Based Paint Disclosure is required for pre-1978 rentals.
• Ask for written forms and keep records to protect your rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• New Mexico Courts – Landlord/Tenant Self-Help Center: Forms, help, and contact information
• New Mexico Real Estate Commission: Information on rental laws and landlord obligations
• New Mexico Uniform Owner-Resident Relations Act (Full Text)
• EPA Lead-Based Paint Real Estate Disclosure

---

1. New Mexico Uniform Owner-Resident Relations Act, Section 47-8-19 – Landlord Disclosures
2. New Mexico Uniform Owner-Resident Relations Act, Section 47-8-18 – Delivery of Possession
3. EPA Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Rule (42 U.S.C. 4852d)
4. New Mexico Courts – Landlord/Tenant Self-Help Center

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations