Many houses and apartments built before 1978 have paint that contains high levels of lead (called lead-based paint). Lead from paint, chips, and dust can pose serious health hazards if not taken care of properly.

Federal law requires that individuals receive certain information before renting, buying or renovating pre-1978 housing. The responsibility for providing this information rests with Landlords and Sellers.

For further information regarding regulations and lead protection programs:

U.S.Environmental Protection Agency

Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)

• What You Should Know About Lead Based Paint in Your Home: Safety Alert
• CPSC Warns About Hazards of "Do lt Yourself" Removal of Lead Based Paint: Safety Alert

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development: Office of Healthy Homes and Lead Hazard Control