Utah Renters: How to Protect Your Family from Lead Paint Hazards

Lead-based paint remains a serious health concern, especially in older Utah rental housing. If you and your family rent in Utah, knowing your rights and the safety steps regarding lead paint is key to a healthy living space. This article outlines what renters need to know about lead-based paint hazards, landlord duties, your protections under Utah law, and how to take action if you suspect a problem.

Understanding Lead-Based Paint Hazards in Utah Rentals

Lead can be found in paint, dust, and soil—especially in homes built before 1978, when the use of lead-based paint was banned for residential use. Exposure is particularly dangerous for children and pregnant people, leading to learning disabilities, developmental delays, and other serious health problems.

• Rental properties built before 1978 are most likely to contain lead-based paint.
• Lead dust from deteriorating paint is a common route of exposure for young children.
• Federal law—the Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act—applies to most Utah rentals.

Your Landlord’s Legal Responsibilities

Both federal and Utah laws set standards to protect renters from lead hazards. Your landlord is required to:

• Disclose any known information about lead-based paint and lead hazards in the rental unit.
• Provide you with the official pamphlet “Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home.”
• Include lead warning statements and disclosure forms in the lease for properties built before 1978.
• Maintain the property in a “habitable” condition under Utah Fit Premises Act standards.

These requirements help renters make informed decisions and protect against dangerous exposure.

Required Form: Lead-Based Paint Disclosure

• Form Name: Disclosure of Information on Lead-Based Paint and/or Lead-Based Paint Hazards (EPA/HUD Form)
• When Used: Must be provided before you sign a lease for any rental unit built before 1978.
• How to Use: Ask your landlord for this form if your building is older. Review, and keep a copy for your records.
• Official EPA Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form

What to Do If You Suspect Lead Hazards

If you notice peeling, chipping, or deteriorating paint in your Utah rental—and especially if young children live with you—take these actions:

• Report all concerns in writing to your landlord immediately.
• Request a lead hazard evaluation or ask if previous inspections have been done.
• Document any areas of damage with photos and dates.

If your landlord does not respond, you may have further protections under the Utah Fit Premises Act. This law requires landlords to address dangerous conditions and maintain safe, habitable housing.

Where to Seek Help or File a Complaint

• For habitability or unresolved hazards, you may file a civil action based on the Utah Fit Premises Act in local court.
• The Utah State Courts – Landlord-Tenant Resources provide help with court actions.
• Contact the Utah Department of Health for inspections or unsafe housing complaints.

The Utah State Courts – Landlord-Tenant Info is the main authority for hearings or disputes between landlords and tenants in Utah.

FAQ: Utah Renters and Lead Paint Hazards

1. Do all Utah rentals need to provide a lead paint disclosure?
   Only rentals built before 1978 must include the disclosure and proper lead hazard information.
2. What if my landlord won’t fix peeling lead paint?
   If your landlord does not address unsafe conditions after written notice, you may have the right to take action under the Utah Fit Premises Act, including involving the courts.
3. Is testing for lead my landlord’s responsibility?
   Landlords are not always required to test for lead unless a hazard is reported, but they are responsible for fixing known hazards and following disclosure rules.
4. How can I check if my rental is high-risk for lead paint?
   Homes built before 1978 are highest risk. The Utah Department of Health can advise on lead testing.
5. Can I break my lease if there is a serious lead hazard?
   If the hazard makes your home uninhabitable and is not fixed after proper notice, you may be able to terminate your lease as provided by Utah law.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Utah

• Utah State Courts – Landlord-Tenant Information for legal dispute resources and tenant forms
• Utah Department of Health – Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention for testing, complaints, and advice
• EPA – Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home for general safety guidance
• Utah Fit Premises Act – complete legislation on habitability duties

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1. Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act (Title X) – Federal EPA Requirements
2. Utah Fit Premises Act (Utah Code Title 57, Chapter 22)
3. EPA Sample Lead Paint Disclosure Form
4. Utah Department of Health – Lead Prevention Program
5. Utah State Courts – Landlord-Tenant Resources

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