WHAT:
Effective January 1, 2015, all residential rental
properties constructed prior to 1978 must
comply with Maryland’s Lead Risk Reduction
in Housing Act.* The law requires rental
property owners to:
1. Register all their rental dwelling units every
year with the Maryland Department of the
Environment (MDE). The cost of registration
is $30;
2. Have lead paint inspections prior to changes
in tenancy; and
3. Distribute specific lead risk educational
materials.
WHO:
Owners of rental properties constructed prior
to 1978.
WHY:
• Protect your tenants and yourself from health
risks. The change in Maryland’s lead law
aims to reduce lead poisoning cases linked to
homes built before 1978 and to help eliminate
childhood lead poisoning in Maryland.
• The use of lead paint was prohibited in 1978,
however, reports in recent years have shown
that a significant percentage of new childhood
lead poisoning cases are linked to homes built
from 1950-1978. This law previously applied to
properties built before 1950.
• Without certification and by not following
approved practices, property owners can face
fines and potential lawsuits.
WHEN & WHERE:
Register or renew your property now through
January 1, 2015 at:
www.mde.maryland.gov/LeadRegistration
QUESTIONS:
Questions on registering your property can be
directed to [email protected].
*This replaces the Maryland’s requirement to register properties
built before 1950