Tennessee Lead Paint Disclosure Rules for Renters

Before moving into a rental home in Tennessee, it’s important to understand your rights when it comes to lead-based paint and related hazards. Tennessee law, along with federal rules, gives renters the right to crucial information about lead paint risks—especially in older properties. Knowing what your landlord must disclose helps you make safer, more informed housing decisions.

When Are Lead Paint Disclosures Required for Rentals?

If you rent a property that was built before 1978, the landlord is required by federal law to inform you about any known lead-based paint and hazards. This ensures you’re aware of potential health risks, especially for children and pregnant people, as lead exposure can be very harmful.

• Applies to: Residential rental properties built before 1978.
• Must be provided before: Signing a rental agreement or lease.

The law requires information—whether or not the landlord knows of any lead hazards. Even if the landlord is unsure, they must still provide an official disclosure and an EPA-approved pamphlet about lead safety.

Official Forms Landlords Must Provide

1. Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form (EPA Form 747-K-99-002)

• When is it used? This form is given to the renter before a rental agreement is signed if the property was built before 1978.
• What does it do? It states whether the landlord knows about any lead-based paint hazards or has any reports or records about them.
• Example: If you’re renting a 1965 apartment in Nashville, your landlord must give you this form before you sign your lease.

2. "Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home" Pamphlet

• This EPA pamphlet must be provided to renters. It explains lead hazards and ways to prevent exposure during your tenancy.
• You should receive this pamphlet with your lease package for any pre-1978 rental.

Tennessee Legislation: Tenant Protection Laws

The Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (For counties with over 75,000 population) is the key state law covering rental agreements. However, lead paint disclosure requirements come from federal law: the Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Rule (24 CFR Part 35; 40 CFR Part 745).

• Learn more about lead hazard disclosure requirements on the EPA’s official homebuyer and renter disclosure page.
• The state landlord/tenant laws are detailed by the Tennessee Real Estate Commission.

What Must Be Disclosed—And How

• Landlords must disclose any known presence of lead-based paint or lead hazards, and provide any existing reports or records.
• Renters and landlords sign the Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form to document that required info was provided.
• The disclosure and pamphlet must come before you sign the lease. If they do not, the landlord is violating federal law.

If your landlord refuses to give you the disclosure form or pamphlet, you have the right to request it. Keeping written records and copies of all signed disclosures is always recommended.

Tip: If you have young children or plan to remodel, ask your landlord if the property has undergone any recent lead paint inspections or abatement work.

What To Do If Disclosures Are Missing or Incomplete

If you discover that your landlord did not provide proper lead paint disclosures for a pre-1978 rental:

• Contact your landlord in writing to request the Lead Disclosure Form and required EPA pamphlet.
• If they do not comply, you can report this to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
• In certain situations, you may also notify the Tennessee Real Estate Commission or local code enforcement office for support.

Federal law allows tenants to seek compensation in court if a landlord fails to provide required disclosures. If you experience health issues from lead exposure, seek medical attention promptly.

FAQ: Lead Paint and Hazard Disclosures in Tennessee Rentals

1. Do all rental properties need lead paint disclosures?
   Disclosures are only required for homes or apartments built before 1978.
2. What if my landlord never gave me the lead paint disclosure form?
   You can request it in writing. If it is not provided, you may report this to the EPA or the Tennessee Real Estate Commission.
3. Is there a cost to receive the EPA lead safety pamphlet?
   No, your landlord must provide the pamphlet for free before you sign the lease for any affected property.
4. Can I break my lease if my landlord refuses to give lead paint disclosures?
   It depends on your situation. You may be able to pursue legal remedies or contact the EPA for next steps.
5. Who enforces tenant lead paint rights in Tennessee?
   Federal oversight is by the EPA. For local issues, contact the Tennessee Real Estate Commission or your local code office.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• Always request and read the Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form and EPA pamphlet before you sign a lease for homes built before 1978.
• Keep copies of disclosure forms for your records.
• If you believe your rights were violated, contact the EPA, the Tennessee Real Estate Commission, or a local authority.

Staying informed ensures your protection and helps keep your home safe from preventable hazards.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – Lead Hazard Program: For reporting concerns and learning about your federal lead paint rights.
• Tennessee Real Estate Commission: Handles rental issues and complaints in Tennessee.
• Tennessee Department of Health – Healthy Homes Lead Poisoning Prevention: For information on lead safety resources and local support.
• EPA Lead Paint Safety Pamphlet: Official guide for renters and families.

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1. EPA, Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Rule for Real Estate
2. Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance, Tennessee Real Estate Commission
3. Tennessee Department of Health, Lead Poisoning Prevention Program
4. EPA, Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form
5. EPA, "Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home" Pamphlet
6. Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, full text

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