Lead Paint Disclosure Requirements for Ohio Renters

Before moving into a rental in Ohio, it's essential to know your rights regarding lead-based paint and other hazardous disclosures. If you're renting a property built before 1978, federal and Ohio laws require specific disclosures to protect your health and safety.

What Is Lead-Based Paint and Why Does It Matter?

Lead-based paint was commonly used in homes built before 1978. Exposure to lead can cause serious health problems, especially for children and pregnant women. That's why landlords and property managers in Ohio must let renters know about any potential lead paint hazards in older homes.

Your Right to Lead Paint Disclosure in Ohio

Federal law, through the Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act (Title X), and Ohio law require the following for rentals built before 1978:

• A written disclosure of known information about lead-based paint and hazards.
• A federally approved lead warning statement attached to your lease.
• Provision of the EPA’s safety pamphlet, Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home.

These actions ensure that renters are aware of any risks and have the information needed to make informed decisions before signing a lease.

Forms You Should Receive

1. Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form (EPA Form 747-K-99-001)

• Name: Disclosure of Information on Lead-Based Paint and/or Lead-Based Paint Hazards (EPA Form 747-K-99-001)
• When Used: This form must be provided to renters before lease signing for any rental built before 1978.
• Practical Example: If you're considering renting a 1950s apartment in Columbus, your landlord must give you this form disclosing any knowledge of lead hazards before you commit to the lease.
• Download the official Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form

2. EPA Lead Paint Safety Pamphlet

• Name: Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home (EPA Pamphlet)
• When Used: This pamphlet must be given to all renters of homes built before 1978, along with the disclosure form.
• Practical Example: Your landlord hands you this pamphlet with your lease paperwork, helping you understand the risks and prevention tips before moving in.
• View the EPA Lead Safety Pamphlet

What Landlords Must Disclose in Ohio

Ohio landlords are legally required to:

• Give you the signed lead hazard disclosure form before you sign any lease for a pre-1978 rental.
• Share any known information about lead paint or hazards (including reports and records).
• Provide the EPA’s lead hazard information pamphlet.

These steps help you make safe choices for yourself and your family.

What If Your Landlord Doesn't Provide These?

If your landlord fails to provide required disclosures or forms:

• You can request the documents formally in writing.
• You're entitled to report non-compliance to Ohio's renter protection agencies or the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
• Lack of disclosure could allow you to cancel the lease or pursue other remedies if you suffer harm due to undisclosed lead hazards.

Legal Protections and Where to Get Help

The official board handling residential landlord-tenant matters in Ohio is the Ohio Small Claims & Landlord-Tenant Court. This court is part of your county municipal or common pleas court system and resolves disputes over disclosures, deposits, maintenance, and tenant rights.

The main Ohio tenancy law you should know is the Ohio Revised Code Chapter 5321: Landlords and Tenants^[1]. Lead paint disclosures are governed by both state law and federal requirements under the Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act (Title X)^[2].

FAQs: Lead Paint and Disclosures for Ohio Rentals

1. Do all Ohio rentals require a lead paint disclosure?
   Only homes and apartments built before 1978 require the federal lead paint disclosure forms and pamphlet.
2. What happens if my landlord doesn’t provide the lead disclosure?
   You can request the disclosure in writing. If it is still not provided, you may contact local health or housing agencies, or seek recourse through the courts.
3. Can I refuse to sign the lease if I don’t receive the disclosure?
   Yes. You are not obligated to sign a lease for a pre-1978 rental unless you receive all required disclosures about lead hazards.
4. Can I request a lead hazard inspection?
   Yes. You can ask your landlord to conduct or share results of a lead inspection, or you may seek one independently at your expense if concerned.

Key Takeaways

• Ohio renters in homes built before 1978 have the right to full disclosure of lead paint hazards.
• Always ensure you receive and keep a copy of the required forms and the EPA information pamphlet before signing a lease.
• If disclosures are missing, you can request the documents and seek assistance from local authorities if necessary.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Lead Information
• Ohio Department of Health – Lead Poisoning Prevention
• Ohio Landlord-Tenant Law (ORC Chapter 5321)
• Ohio Small Claims & Landlord-Tenant Court Information
• HUD: Healthy Homes Program

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1. Ohio Revised Code Chapter 5321: Landlords and Tenants
2. Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act (Title X) and EPA Real Estate Disclosure Requirements

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