Tenants have specific rights to protect themselves and their families from lead-based paint hazards in rental properties. If you live in a home built before 1978, your landlord is legally required to provide you with a copy of the Notice of Tenant’s Rights. These include the right to receive a copy of a current lead inspection certificate for your unit. The certificate confirms that the property has been inspected and meets state safety standards for lead.
You also have the right to request that your landlord address any lead hazards promptly. If you suspect that peeling paint, dust, or other conditions may pose a lead risk, you can contact your landlord to request repairs.
If your concerns are not addressed, you may file a complaint with the state. Additionally, if your child under the age of six has an elevated blood lead level, you may be eligible for relocation assistance.
Landlord Responsibilities
Your landlord has a legal duty to keep the property lead-safe. Maryland’s lead law outlines clear steps landlords must take before a tenant moves in:
Register the property with the state so there’s a record of its lead status.
Have the home inspected by a certified lead paint professional before each new tenancy begins.
Repair peeling or chipping paint using lead-safe work practices that prevent further contamination.
Your landlord should also provide you with documentation, including:
These requirements are not optional—they’re designed to give you peace of mind and to prevent lead exposure before it starts.
Know Your Rights
You have the right to live in a home that is lead-safe. You also have the right to receive important information at the beginning of your lease. If you ever notice peeling paint, cracked surfaces, or anything that seems unsafe, you have the right to ask for repairs—and to expect those repairs to be made safely.
You can also request a lead inspection if you're worried about potential exposure, especially if you have children in the home. The law protects you, and you don’t have to navigate these concerns alone.
What to Do if You’re Worried About Lead
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 and gives them a chance to respond.
If you’re not getting answers or want to verify your home’s lead status, call us. We can check if your property is properly registered, help you understand your rights, and connect you with the resources you need.
Remember: you don’t have to face this alone, and the law is on your side.
Cultural items
Some traditional or imported cultural items—especially those used in cooking, religious rituals, or decoration—may contain dangerous levels of lead. These include glazed pottery, ceremonial powders, jewelry, and cosmetics like kohl or surma. While these items may hold cultural or sentimental value, they can pose serious health risks to children, including learning and behavior problems, slowed growth, and damage to the brain and nervous system.
Children are especially vulnerable to lead poisoning because their bodies absorb lead more easily, and even small amounts can have lasting effects. Lead exposure often has no immediate symptoms, so parents may not realize their child is at risk until it’s too late.
Avoid using imported glazed pottery for food or drinks unless it is labeled lead-free.
Be cautious with traditional cosmetics or remedies not regulated in the U.S.
Keep ceremonial powders and amulets out of children's reach.
When in doubt, contact your local health department to test suspicious items.
Cultural traditions are important—but so is your child's health. Learn more about lead-safe practices and how to keep your home free from hidden hazards.
Contact
Call us at 410-537-3825.