Pennsylvania Lead Paint Disclosure Requirements for Renters

If you’re renting an apartment or house in Pennsylvania, it’s important to understand your rights when it comes to lead paint and hazard disclosures. Landlords in Pennsylvania must follow both federal and state laws about informing renters of possible lead-based paint hazards, especially in buildings constructed before 1978. Knowing what disclosures and forms you should receive at move-in can help keep you and your household safe.

Understanding Lead Paint Hazards in Pennsylvania Rentals

Lead is a toxic metal that can cause serious health problems, particularly in children and pregnant women. Many older homes and apartments—especially those built before 1978—can contain lead-based paint. Lead dust can be released from deteriorating paint, renovation work, and even normal wear and tear.

Why Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Is Required

Federal law (under the U.S. Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act) requires landlords to share known information about lead-based paint to tenants renting homes built before 1978. Pennsylvania enforces these requirements for the safety of renters across the state.

What Landlords Must Disclose

If you’re moving into a rental unit built before January 1, 1978, your landlord must provide the following details before you sign the lease:

• A federally approved Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form (EPA/HUD/Lease version)
• Any records or reports about lead-based paint or lead-based paint hazards in the unit
• The EPA informational pamphlet: "Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home"

These disclosures apply to most residential rentals, including single-family homes, apartments, and multi-family properties.

Official Disclosure Forms

• Form Name: Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (EPA/HUD/LEASE)
• When Used: This form must be provided before you are obligated under a rental agreement for a property built before 1978. For example, if you're about to rent a historic Philadelphia apartment, your landlord should hand you this form and have you sign it confirming receipt.
• Official Source: EPA Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form (PDF)

Landlords may face fines or penalties if they fail to provide these required documents.

Pennsylvania State Rules and Additional Protections

While Pennsylvania follows federal regulations, certain cities—like Philadelphia—have even stricter requirements. For example, Philadelphia requires lead-safe certifications for rentals where children 6 and under will live.

What to Do If You Weren't Given a Lead Paint Disclosure

Not receiving the required forms or pamphlet? Here are steps to protect your rights and your health:

• Request the disclosure and pamphlet in writing from your landlord.
• If you still don't receive them, contact the U.S. EPA or your local health department to report the issue.
• In some situations, you may be able to cancel or break your lease, or seek damages, depending on your circumstances and harm caused.

Federal law gives you options for enforcement. If you need to escalate, you may submit a complaint to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Pennsylvania Tribunal for Tenant-Landlord Disputes

If a serious dispute arises over lead hazard disclosures and cannot be resolved directly with your landlord, you may file a case in your county’s Magisterial District Court (for most of Pennsylvania) or Philadelphia Municipal Court, which handle residential tenancy disputes.

The key Pennsylvania law covering landlord and tenant responsibilities is the Landlord and Tenant Act of 1951.

FAQ: Lead Paint and Hazard Disclosures for Pennsylvania Renters

1. Does my landlord have to tell me if there is lead paint in my apartment?
   Yes. If your rental was built before 1978, your landlord must give you written disclosure of any known lead-based paint or hazards, plus the EPA pamphlet, before you sign your lease.
2. What should I do if I didn't get a lead warning before moving in?
   Formally request the disclosure and pamphlet in writing. If you don’t get them, contact your local health department or the EPA, and consider seeking legal support.
3. Am I protected if my child is exposed to lead in my rental?
   Yes, both federal and local laws protect renters. If you think your child has been exposed, contact your local health department immediately and seek legal advice if your landlord won’t fix the hazard.
4. What forms should I receive for lead paint disclosure?
   You should receive the "Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form" and the EPA's "Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home" pamphlet for any property built before 1978.
5. Where can I submit a complaint if my landlord refuses to provide lead disclosures?
   You can contact the U.S. EPA or your county’s Magisterial District Court for unresolved disputes regarding lead disclosure.

Conclusion: Know Your Rights, Stay Safe

• Landlords must provide lead paint and hazard disclosures—and the EPA information pamphlet—before you sign a lease for a home built before 1978.
• If you don’t receive these, ask in writing and report to authorities if needed.
• Use official forms and resources to protect your health and your renter rights.

Staying informed and proactive can help ensure a safe living environment for you and your family.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• PA Government Guide: Renting in Pennsylvania
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: Lead Information
• HUD: Lead Disclosure Enforcement
• Philadelphia Lead Safety Certification
• Pennsylvania Tenancy Disputes: Magisterial District Courts

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1. Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act: EPA Lead-Based Paint Disclosure regulations
2. Pennsylvania Landlord and Tenant Act of 1951: Official Legislation
3. Magisterial District Courts (Pennsylvania): Official Website
4. EPA Lead Disclosure Form: EPA Form PDF
5. EPA Pamphlet "Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home": Official PDF

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