Rhode Island Renters: Lead Paint Hazards & Your Rights

Renting in Rhode Island often means living in older homes, where hidden lead-based paint hazards can put you and your family at risk. As a renter, understanding your rights and your landlord's responsibilities is vital to keeping your home safe and healthy. This guide breaks down Rhode Island’s lead safety requirements, official resources, and steps you can take if you suspect a problem.

Understanding Lead-Based Paint Hazards

Lead-based paint is common in homes built before 1978. Exposure to lead dust or chips—especially for young children and pregnant women—can cause serious health issues. Rhode Island has strong laws to protect renters from these dangers.

Landlord Responsibilities for Lead Safety

Under Rhode Island’s Lead Hazard Mitigation Act, landlords of properties built before 1978 must:

• Provide tenants a copy of a lead hazard mitigation certificate issued by a state-licensed inspector, showing the property is safe from lead hazards
• Give tenants the official EPA-approved pamphlet, “Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home” before you sign or renew a lease
• Correct lead hazards within 30 days of being notified of a problem or cited by the state
• Keep copies of lead safety certificates for all tenants

Your Right to Lead Disclosure

Landlords must give you this information using the “Disclosure of Information on Lead-Based Paint and/or Lead-Based Paint Hazards” form before you sign your lease. This helps renters make informed choices about older housing.

What To Do if You Suspect Lead Hazards

• Ask your landlord for a copy of the current lead hazard mitigation certificate.
• If you believe your rental has lead hazards (chipping paint, visible dust, or your landlord has not provided proper documentation):
  • File a complaint with the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) Lead Poisoning Prevention Program.
  • You may also contact the Rhode Island Housing Resources Commission for support.

Required Forms and Official Resources for Renters

• Lead Hazard Mitigation Certificate
  What is it? A document proving your rental was inspected and meets safety standards for lead hazards.
  When is it used? Landlords must provide this before you move in. If you did not receive it, request it in writing.
  Rhode Island Lead Hazard Mitigation Certificate (PDF)
• Lead Disclosure Form (EPA/HUD Form)
  What is it? This form confirms the landlord disclosed known lead hazards and shared the EPA pamphlet with you.
  When is it used? You sign it before entering a lease for most housing built before 1978.
  Disclosure of Information on Lead-Based Paint and/or Lead-Based Paint Hazards
• Complaint Form – Lead Hazard Concerns
  What is it? If your landlord does not respond to safety concerns or you see unsafe conditions, use RIDOH’s complaint form.
  When is it used? File with the Rhode Island Department of Health as needed.
  RIDOH Complaint Submission (Select Lead Hazard)

How to File a Lead Hazard Complaint

Filing a lead hazard complaint with the Rhode Island Department of Health is straightforward—protect your family by alerting the authorities when you spot unsafe conditions.

• Collect any documentation, like photos of peeling paint, letters to your landlord, and copies of your lease.
• Submit the complaint form online or by mail to RIDOH’s Lead Poisoning Prevention Program.
• RIDOH will investigate and direct the landlord to fix any hazards found.

Your Rights and Legal Protections

Rhode Island’s main laws for renters are found in the Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Title 34, Chapter 18) and the Lead Hazard Mitigation Act.^[1] If your home is unsafe or your landlord does not follow these laws, you can seek help through the official Rhode Island District Court Landlord & Tenant Division.

FAQs about Lead-Based Paint Safety for Rhode Island Renters

1. What if my landlord refuses to give me a lead certificate?
   You can request the certificate in writing and, if not provided, file a complaint with the Rhode Island Department of Health. Your landlord cannot legally rent most pre-1978 units without this document.
2. Can I break my lease because of lead hazards?
   If the landlord fails to address serious lead hazards after notice, Rhode Island law may allow for lease termination or withholding rent—but always seek legal assistance first.
3. Who enforces lead paint laws in Rhode Island rentals?
   The Rhode Island Department of Health oversees enforcement for lead hazards, with the District Court handling rental disputes.
4. Are there any exceptions for lead law requirements?
   Owner-occupied buildings with fewer than four units may have different requirements—check RIDOH's Housing Lead Law summary for details.
5. Where can I get a free lead inspection?
   Rhode Island offers free lead inspections for eligible low-income households—contact the RIDOH Lead Program for more information.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Rhode Island Department of Health – Lead Poisoning Prevention Program (401-222-5960)
• Rhode Island Housing – Renter Support and Resources
• District Court Landlord & Tenant Division – Dispute resolution and tenant applications
• Rhode Island Legal Services – Free or low-cost legal help
• RIDOH Lead in Rental Housing Guide – Understand your protections and next steps

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1. ^[1] Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (RIGL Title 34 Chapter 18); Lead Hazard Mitigation Act (RIGL Title 42, Chapter 128.1)
2. For more, see Rhode Island Department of Health: Lead in Housing and official Landlord & Tenant Division resources.

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