Lead poisoning has become a more common occurrence across the nation, especially in young children. The EPA has found that the main source of this poisoning is lead-based paint. Lead-based paint is found primarily in homes built prior to 1978 when the federal government banned the use of lead-based paint. What can you do as a landlord to protect yourself and your tenants? Real Property Management Gold has compiled a list of things you need to know.
Know the Dangers
When children under the age of six are exposed to this hazardous paint, it can lead to brain damage, nervous disorders that lead to behavioral problems, and a lower IQ. Adults can also be harmed through exposure and can experience numerous health effects that range from kidney disorders to reproductive disorders. It doesn’t matter the age of a person–it has been proven that exposure to lead based paint is dangerous.
Any home or apartment building built before 1978 must be treated as if it had lead-based paint. In 2013, the Department of Housing and Urban Development reported that 24 million homes across the nation have either peeling and chipping lead-based paint or elevated levels of lead dust.
Know the Law
Title X, otherwise known as the Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act, was passed in 1992 as a means of protecting people from exposure to lead-based paint. If you own a rental property built prior to 1978, you must disclose lead-based paint possibilities and hazards to each new tenant and those who renew their lease.
Take this into consideration when purchasing a rental property because most homes that the same family owned for years and years generally haven’t been treated for the problem.
Know How to Prevent
If your rental needs repairs or renovations, Real Property Management Gold can help by referring you to an EPA RRP-certified firm to perform the needed work. These firms are trained to follow lead-safe work practices and are authorized by the EPA according to their renovating, repairing, and painting rule.
When the paint in a home is in good condition, there are fewer chances for hazardous conditions. The problem begins when it starts peeling or chipping. The EPA recommends wiping the chips away with a wet paper towel and disposing of them after clean-up. Flat surfaces should be wiped down frequently and regularly checked for chipped or peeling paint.
By familiarizing yourself with the laws and dangers of lead-based paint, you will be able to handle any issues that may arise, ensure the safety of your tenants, and avoid costly lawsuit filings.
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.
Lead paint can now be sealed and treated.