Tenants have specific rights to protect them from lead-based paint hazards in rental properties. If you are a tenant and reside in a property built before 1978, your landlord is required to do several things prior to you moving in. These requirements are not optional—they’re designed to give you peace of mind and to prevent lead exposure before it starts.

Landlord Responsibilities

Your landlord has a legal responsibility to ensure that your pre-1978 rental property is lead-safe. Maryland’s lead law outlines clear steps landlords must take before a tenant moves in. The  minimum requirements for a landlord include:

• Registering the pre-1978 rental property with MDE annually and pay associated fees. 
• Ensure there is no defective paint or leaded dust in the property and having it certified by a Maryland accredited lead inspector.
• After occupancy, repair defective paint and fix structural defects that may cause paint to flake or peel.
• Hire Maryland accredited contractors that are required to use lead-safe work practices when fixing paint and/or defects.

Your landlord should also provide you with documentation, including:

• A copy of the property’s lead inspection certificate, showing it meets safety standards. (click th​e link to determine if there is a certificate on file for your rental property) 
• The Notice of Tenant's Rights, Notice of Tenants Rights (Spanish) which explains your protections under the law.
• A federal brochure, Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home, which outlines how to recognize and respond to lead hazards.

Know Your Rights

If something doesn’t seem right—for example, if your landlord hasn’t provided the required documents or if you see deteriorating paint—start by putting your concerns in writing and sending them to your landlord. This creates a record of your request. You have the right to live in a home that is lead-safe. If your concerns are not addressed, you may file a Complaint with the state.

If you need legal assistance please contact the Green and Health Homes Initiative and complete the Maryland Intake Form or contact them at 410-534-6447.

What to Do if You’re Worried About Lead

If you have young children in your home and you are concerned that your child may have been exposed to lead, please reach out to your health care provider to have your child tested. 

Visit our Parents Page  for more information on preventing lead poisoning.

Contact the Maryland Department of the Environment Lead Poisoning Prevention Program for more information at 410-537-3825.​​​