How to Buy a Home With a Lead Paint Disclosure

Deteriorating lead-based paint on your walls is a health hazard.

If you are purchasing a home that was built before 1978, it may have been painted with lead-based paint. This paint, and its chips and dust, can cause serious health problems, especially in children under the age of 6. Because of this, the Federal government requires sellers of homes built before 1978 to disclose any known lead-based paint hazards in the home. The buyer then has 10 days to complete any inspections regarding these hazards.

Instructions

1. Read the Lead-Based Paint disclosure carefully. Look for the section titled "Seller's Disclosure." If the seller has checked the box indicating he has no knowledge regarding lead-based hazards in the home, and the house was built before 1978, you will need to have the home inspected to be sure there is no lead present.

2. Hire a certified testing professional to perform a risk assessment of the home during your 10 day inspection period. You can find a testing professional on the EPA website. The report will disclose any lead hazards in the home and their locations. Ask the technician for an estimate on repairing the hazard and ask the seller for cash back at the close of escrow to pay for the repairs.

3. Remove the lead-based paint hazards should you decide to purchase the home. There are certified lead-abatement professionals who will remove the hazard or seal it with special materials. Locate contractors in your area by visiting the EPA website listed in the Resources section.

References

• EPA.gov: Basic Information

Resources

• EPA.gov: Protect Your Family From Lead In Your Home
• EPA.gov: Locate Certified Renovation Firms