Lead Paint in Older Homes: What Sellers and Landlords Need to Know
A large share of homes and rental buildings in Los Angeles were built before 1978 — the year lead-based paint was banned for residential use. If your property falls into that group, lead rules can affect how repairs are done and what you need to disclose when you sell or rent.
Why it matters
Lead paint that is intact is generally lower risk. The danger comes when it deteriorates or is disturbed — by sanding, scraping, cutting, or demolition — and creates dust that can be inhaled or swallowed. Young children and pregnant women are most at risk. That’s why peeling paint on older buildings often shows up on violation notices and inspection reports.
The EPA Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule
Under the federal RRP Rule, contractors who are paid to do work that disturbs painted surfaces in pre-1978 homes, child-care facilities, and schools must be EPA-certified and follow lead-safe work practices. That includes containing the work area, minimizing dust, and cleaning and verifying the area afterward. Small jobs below certain size thresholds may be exempt, but many common repairs — window replacement, door work, drywall and trim repairs, exterior paint prep — are covered.
If you’re selling or renting
- Federal law requires sellers and landlords of most pre-1978 housing to disclose known lead-based paint and hazards and provide any available records or reports.
- Buyers and tenants must receive the EPA pamphlet Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home.
- Buyers are generally given an opportunity to conduct a lead inspection or risk assessment before they are bound by the contract.
Your real estate agent or attorney can confirm exactly what applies to your transaction.
How to handle repairs safely
- Assume paint in a pre-1978 building may contain lead unless testing shows otherwise.
- Hire an EPA RRP-certified contractor for any work that will disturb painted surfaces.
- Ask how the work area will be contained and cleaned, and keep records of the work for your files and future disclosures.
Barrett Construction & Co. is EPA Lead-Safe certified and follows RRP work practices on older homes and rental properties.
Peeling paint on a violation notice or inspection report? Send us your notice or report for a free assessment → or call (213) 851-5493.