Washington Rental Lead Paint Disclosure: What Renters Need to Know

If you’re moving into a rental home or apartment in Washington, understanding lead paint disclosure requirements is essential for your safety and peace of mind. Federal and Washington state laws require landlords to notify you about potential lead-based paint hazards, especially in older properties. This guide breaks down what you need to know as a renter, which forms to expect, your landlord’s responsibilities, and where to get help.

Why Are Lead Paint Disclosures Important?

Lead-based paint, used in many homes built before 1978, can pose serious health risks—especially for young children and pregnant people. Exposure often occurs through dust or chips in paint, and it’s crucial you’re informed if your rental might be affected.

When Does the Lead Paint Disclosure Law Apply?

Both federal law (the Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act) and Washington state regulations require certain disclosures for residential rentals. Specifically, these laws apply if:

• The rental property was constructed before 1978
• You’re entering a new lease or renewing an existing one
• Certain exemptions are met (examples: zero-bedroom units or short-term leases under 100 days)

Your landlord must provide specific disclosures and information before you sign a lease or move in.

What Must Landlords Provide?

Before renting, your landlord must:

• Disclose any known information about lead-based paint or lead hazards in the home
• Give you an EPA-approved lead hazard information pamphlet
• Share any available lead inspection or risk assessment reports
• Attach a federally required lead disclosure form to the lease

Official Lead Disclosure Form for Rentals

• Form Name: Disclosure of Information on Lead-Based Paint and/or Lead-Based Paint Hazards (EPA/HUD Form)
  How It’s Used: Landlords must fill out this form for properties built before 1978. You’ll receive and sign it when leasing a covered property. For example, if you rent a 1950s apartment in Seattle, your landlord should provide this form before you move in.
  Download the official Lead Disclosure Form (PDF)
• Pamphlet: Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home (EPA 747-K-12-001)
  How It’s Used: This brochure explains risks and basic safety tips. Your landlord should give you this pamphlet when you sign the lease.
  View the official EPA Lead Pamphlet

Your Rights as a Renter Under Washington Law

Landlords have a legal duty to disclose lead hazards and cannot avoid this responsibility. Under the Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act, you have additional protections regarding habitability and your right to a safe living environment. If your home has dangerous lead levels, you may be able to request repairs, an alternative unit, or—if the landlord does not act—report the property to the proper authorities.

Who Can Help With Tenant Disputes?

If you believe lead disclosures were not properly made or you discover unsafe lead conditions, you can contact the official state dispute body:

• Washington State Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Program – Provides information, complaint forms, and assists with landlord-tenant issues.
• Washington courts are responsible for enforcing the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act if legal action is needed.

What If Disclosures Are Missing or Incomplete?

Failure to receive proper disclosures may allow you to:

• Cancel the lease agreement before moving in
• Request remediation of lead hazards
• File a complaint with the Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Program

Additionally, landlords who fail to disclose lead hazards can face penalties under federal law.

Action Steps for Renters in Washington

If you’re renting an older property, here’s what you should do:

• Ask your landlord if the property was built before 1978 and request the lead disclosure form
• Read and keep the EPA lead safety pamphlet
• Review any inspection or risk assessment reports provided
• If disclosure is missing, discuss with your landlord and consider contacting support services

Staying informed empowers you to keep your rental home safe and healthy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do all Washington rentals require a lead paint disclosure?
   Most rentals built before 1978 must include a lead paint disclosure. Some exemptions apply, such as for short-term rentals or certain studio apartments.
2. What should I do if my landlord didn’t provide a lead paint disclosure?
   You should ask the landlord in writing for the proper paperwork. If still not provided, you may file a complaint with the Washington Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Program.
3. Where can I get the official lead disclosure form for Washington rentals?
   You can download it directly from the EPA: EPA/HUD Lead Disclosure Form.
4. Can I break my lease if I discover lead hazards in my home?
   If there’s a serious lead hazard and your landlord does not act to remedy it, Washington law may allow you to terminate your lease after following legal notice procedures.
5. Who enforces lead disclosure and rental safety laws in Washington?
   The Washington State Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Program and local courts handle enforcement of these laws.

Key Takeaways for Washington Renters

• Always ask for and review federally required lead paint disclosures before signing a lease for a property built before 1978.
• Your landlord must provide both a disclosure form and the official EPA pamphlet.
• If you believe proper precautions weren’t followed, you have options, including reporting the issue to state authorities.

Understanding your rights protects your health and ensures a safe rental experience.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Washington State Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Program – File complaints or get detailed guidance.
• EPA Lead Poisoning Prevention – Safety information and protective steps for renters.
• WA Department of Health – Lead Resources – Local health support, including inspections and advice.

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1. Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act
2. EPA: The Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Rule
3. Disclosure of Information on Lead-Based Paint Form
4. EPA Lead Disclosure Pamphlet
5. Washington Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Program

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