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Lead
Contact Us

Is my home unsafe if it contains lead-based paint?

Answer: Approximately three-quarters of the nation’s housing built before 1978 contains some lead-based paint. This paint, if properly managed and maintained, poses little risk. If allowed to deteriorate, lead from paint can threaten the health of occupants, especially children under six years old. If families and building owners are aware of the presence of lead-based paint and the proper actions to take, most lead-based paint hazards can be managed. The EPA pamphlet "Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home" provides important information for families and home owners to help them identify when lead-based paint is likely to be a hazard and how to get their home checked. 

Question Number: 23002-33212

Find a printable PDF copy of all frequent questions pertaining to lead.

Other Frequent Questions about Lead

General Information about Lead
Testing for Lead
Renovation, Repair and Painting
Abatement, Risk Assessment and Inspection

Applying for Certification or Accreditation
Lead-Based Paint Program Fees
EPA/HUD Real Estate Notification & Disclosure Rule

Lead in Products
Lead in Drinking Water
Lead at Superfund Sites

Related Questions

  • What type of housing is affected by the EPA and HUD Real Estate Notification and Disclosure Rule?
  • What type of housing is not affected by the EPA and HUD Real Estate Notification and Disclosure Rule?
  • What is the purpose of the EPA and HUD Real Estate Notification and Disclosure Rule and who is affected?
  • Are mortgage lenders liable under these rules if the seller or lessor fails to disclose?
  • What is target housing?
  • What if I know there is lead-based paint in my home?
  • Where can I find a qualified professional to conduct an inspection?
  • What if a seller or lessor fails to comply with these regulations?
  • Is the seller required to remove any lead-based paint that is discovered during an inspection?
  • What if I'm renting target housing?
  • As an agent what are my responsibilities?
  • If I am renting, do I have the same opportunity to test for lead?
  • Must I check my house for lead prior to sale?
  • What is the responsibility of an agent if the seller or landlord fails to comply with the EPA and HUD Real Estate Notification and Disclosure Rule?
  • As a seller and lessor, what if I'm selling target housing?
  • What if the lessor knows that there is no lead-based paint in my rental housing?
  • Can the inspection/risk assessment period for testing a house for lead be waived?
  • As a purchaser, am I required to conduct and finance an inspection?
  • Does this rule increase my liability for future lead poisoning on my property?
  • Is my home unsafe if it contains lead-based paint?
  • How does the EPA and HUD Real Estate Notification and Disclosure Rule apply to housing common areas such as stairwells, lobbies, and laundry rooms?
  • Must lead-based paint inspectors be certified?
  • What if the buyers/renters don't speak English?
  • Why doesn't the EPA and HUD Real Estate Notification and Disclosure Rule affect housing built after 1978?
  • Lead Home
  • Learn About Lead
  • Protect Your Family
  • Renovation, Repair and Painting Program
  • Evaluating & Eliminating Lead-Based Paint Hazards
  • Real Estate Disclosure
  • Science and Technology
  • Lead Laws and Regulations
  • En español: Plomo
Contact Us to ask a question, provide feedback, or report a problem.
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Last updated on April 18, 2022