Rhode Island Lead Paint Disclosure Rules for Renters

When moving into a rental in Rhode Island, it's important for renters to know about state laws that protect your health, especially rules about lead paint and other hazards. Rhode Island law requires landlords to disclose if lead-based paint is present in rental housing and provide you with specific information and forms. This ensures you can make informed decisions about your new home.

What is Lead Paint and Why Should Renters Care?

Lead-based paint was commonly used in homes built before 1978. It can present serious health risks—especially to children and pregnant women—if the paint chips, peels, or creates dust. Exposure to lead can result in developmental problems, learning disabilities, and other serious health concerns.

Rhode Island Legal Requirements for Lead Paint Disclosures

Under both federal and Rhode Island state law, landlords must give renters certain disclosures and materials before leasing most housing built before 1978.

• Disclosure Form: Landlords must provide a Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form (EPA Form 2400-04) before you sign a lease.
• Pamphlet: Tenants must receive the EPA's "Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home" booklet.
• Certification: Rhode Island requires property owners of pre-1978 homes to obtain a Lead-Safe Certificate or a Lead-Free Certificate, issued by a licensed inspector.

These rules apply to residential rentals, except units for the elderly or disabled where no child under six will live.

When Do Renters Receive These Disclosures?

Your landlord must give you the disclosure and certificates before you sign a rental agreement. Receiving these documents helps you understand any possible lead paint risks in your new home.

What Happens if My Landlord Does Not Provide the Required Lead Paint Disclosures?

If your landlord fails to provide legally required lead paint disclosures or certificates, this could be a violation of Rhode Island and federal law. You have the right to:

• Request the missing disclosures and certificates in writing.
• Report non-compliance to the Rhode Island Department of Health Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program.
• File a complaint or seek remedies, which might include lease termination or damages, under applicable tenancy laws.

Required Lead Paint Forms in Rhode Island Rentals

• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form (EPA Form 2400-04):
  Landlords must provide this form to all tenants before leasing properties built before 1978. It documents any known lead hazards and confirms that tenants received the required information.
  Example: If you're moving into a Providence apartment from 1950, ask to sign and receive a copy of this form before you sign your lease.
  Find the EPA's official lead paint disclosure form.
• Lead-Safe or Lead-Free Certificate:
  Landlords must give you one of these certificates to show your unit meets Rhode Island safety standards.
  Example: After you agree to rent, but before you move in, the landlord provides a Lead-Safe Certificate showing the unit passed a state-approved inspection.
  Get sample Rhode Island lead certificates.

Where to Get Help and Who Enforces These Rules?

Rhode Island rental housing issues are overseen by the Rhode Island District Court, which handles landlord-tenant matters. Additional oversight and enforcement regarding lead are provided by the Rhode Island Department of Health's Lead Poisoning Prevention Program.

All disclosures are backed by state law: see the Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act and Lead Poisoning Prevention Act^[1][2].

Action Steps for Renters: Protecting Yourself

If you have not received the required lead paint disclosures or you suspect an unaddressed hazard:

• Politely ask your landlord for the missing disclosure or certificates.
• Keep copies of all documents and communications.
• If the issue is not resolved, contact the Rhode Island Department of Health or the District Court for further assistance.

FAQs About Lead Paint Disclosures in Rhode Island Rentals

1. Which rentals require lead paint disclosures in Rhode Island?
   All dwellings built before 1978 must provide lead disclosure forms and safety certificates, unless used exclusively for the elderly or disabled with no young children present.
2. What should I do if I think my rental unit has lead hazards?
   Inform your landlord in writing, and contact the Rhode Island Department of Health for inspection or advice if concerns remain.
3. Is my landlord required to provide a lead-safe or lead-free certificate?
   Yes, landlords must provide one of these certificates for rental units built before 1978, showing compliance with Rhode Island law.
4. Can I refuse to move in if I do not get a lead paint disclosure?
   You are not required to sign a lease until you have received the necessary disclosures and certificates; refusal is within your rights if documents are missing.
5. How do I file a complaint if my landlord does not comply?
   Contact the Rhode Island Department of Health Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program or file in District Court for resolution.

Key Takeaways for Rhode Island Renters

• Rentals built before 1978 require formal lead paint disclosures and safety certificates before signing a lease.
• Your landlord must offer copies of official EPA forms and state certificates to keep you safe.
• If these are missing, take written action and know where to find official help or file a complaint.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Rhode Island Department of Health - Lead Poisoning Prevention: (401) 222-5960
• Rhode Island District Court - Landlord/Tenant Section
• Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
• EPA: Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home
• Rhode Island Lead Program Main Page

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1. Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
2. Rhode Island Lead Poisoning Prevention Act
3. EPA Lead Disclosure Forms

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