LEAD PAINT DISCLOSURE FORM
Generate the federally required lead-based paint disclosure for any pre-1978 property transaction. Pre-filled with a realistic example — edit property details, seller and buyer information, lead paint status, inspection records, and all required acknowledgments. Print for signatures or copy to paste into your closing documents. Need to understand lead paint certification requirements? Start there.
Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form
Federal form required for all pre-1978 housing transactions
Lead Warning Statement
Every purchaser of any interest in residential real property on which a residential dwelling was built prior to 1978 is notified that such property may present exposure to lead from lead-based paint that may place young children at risk of developing lead poisoning. Lead poisoning in young children may produce permanent neurological damage, including learning disabilities, reduced intelligence quotient, behavioral problems, and impaired memory.
Pre-filled with a realistic example. Edit all fields, then print or copy the completed disclosure.
Lead-Based Paint Disclosure
1428 Elm Street, Denver, CO 80205
Year built: 1962
Sale
Date: March 9, 2026
Seller
Patricia & David Chen
(303) 555-0184
Buyer
Michael & Sarah Thompson
(720) 555-0293
Agent
Lisa Marchetti
Front Range Realty Group
Lead Warning Statement
Every purchaser of any interest in residential real property on which a residential dwelling was built prior to 1978 is notified that such property may present exposure to lead from lead-based paint that may place young children at risk of developing lead poisoning.
Seller's Disclosure
Known lead-based paint present: Lead-based paint detected on window trim and door frames in bedrooms 2 and 3 during a 2019 inspection by SafeHome Testing (Report #SHT-2019-4821). Paint is intact and in stable condition. No remediation performed.
Records & Reports
SafeHome Testing lead inspection report dated June 12, 2019 (Report #SHT-2019-4821). XRF testing results for all rooms. Copy of EPA pamphlet provided.
Purchaser's Acknowledgment
- [X] Received EPA pamphlet
- [X] Received all available records
- [X] 10-day inspection opportunity received
Agent's Acknowledgment
[X] Agent has informed seller of obligations under 42 U.S.C. 4852d.
How to Complete a Lead Paint Disclosure
Federal law under Title X, Section 1018 requires sellers and landlords of pre-1978 housing to disclose known lead-based paint hazards before any sale or lease. If you're a painting contractor working on older homes, understanding this process is essential — especially if you need EPA lead paint certification (RRP rule) to disturb painted surfaces.
1. Determine applicability
The property must have been built before January 1, 1978. Applies to sales and leases of most residential housing, including HUD-assisted and federally owned properties.
2. Disclose known hazards
Sellers must disclose any known lead-based paint or hazards. This includes results from past inspections, test reports, and any remediation history.
3. Provide EPA pamphlet
Give buyers a copy of the EPA pamphlet "Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home." This is federally required — not optional.
4. Allow 10-day inspection
Buyers must receive a 10-day window (or mutually agreed period) to conduct a lead paint inspection or risk assessment. They can waive this right.
5. Sign and retain
All parties — seller, buyer, and agent — must sign the disclosure. Keep signed copies for at least 3 years after closing.
6. Understand penalties
Non-compliance can result in triple damages, civil fines up to $19,507 per violation (2026 amount), and potential criminal penalties.
Who Is Exempt from Lead Paint Disclosure?
Not every property transaction requires a lead paint disclosure. The following exemptions are defined under 42 U.S.C. 4852d and EPA regulations.
| EXEMPTION | WHY IT'S EXEMPT |
|---|---|
| Housing built 1978 or later | Lead paint banned in 1978. Newer homes are not subject to the disclosure requirement. |
| Zero-bedroom units (studios, dorms, SROs) | Defined as units with no separate sleeping area. Exempt under Section 1018. |
| Housing for the elderly or disabled | Properties designated for elderly or persons with disabilities (unless children under 6 reside there). |
| Short-term vacation rentals (100 days or less) | Temporary rentals are exempt. Seasonal leases exceeding 100 days are NOT exempt. |
| Foreclosure sales | Bank-owned properties sold at foreclosure auction are exempt from the 10-day inspection period but still require disclosure. |
Lead Paint Rules for Painting Contractors
As a painting contractor, lead paint disclosure isn't just the seller's problem — it directly affects how you bid, prep, and protect yourself on pre-1978 jobs. Understanding contractor insurance requirements is equally critical when working around lead hazards.
Check the year built before bidding
If the property was built before 1978, your estimate should account for lead-safe work practices. Use our paint calculator to build in the extra material and labor costs.
Get RRP certified
The EPA Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) rule requires contractors to be certified before disturbing lead paint in pre-1978 homes. Fines start at $37,500 per day.
Document everything
Photograph surfaces before and after work. Keep containment setup records, cleaning verification results, and waste disposal receipts. This protects you if a claim arises years later.
Reference disclosure in your contract
Your painting contract should note whether a lead paint disclosure was provided by the property owner. It shifts liability where it belongs.
Pro tip: Before starting any pre-1978 job, ask the homeowner if a lead disclosure was completed during their purchase. If they don't have one, recommend a paint calculation that factors in lead-safe containment materials. Need to understand your full cost to paint a house? Factor in an extra 20-30% for lead-safe work practices.
Complete Your Paperwork
A lead paint disclosure is just one document in a professional painting workflow. Pair it with a painting contract for the job itself, an estimate template for quoting, and an invoice for billing. If you're just launching your business, our guide on how to start a painting business covers licensing, insurance, and compliance from day one.
RELATED TOOLS & GUIDES
Lead Paint Certification Guide
EPA RRP certification, training costs, and renewal requirements for painting contractors.
Painting Contract Template
Generate a professional contract with scope, payment terms, and lead paint references.
Painting Contractor Insurance
General liability, workers' comp, and pollution liability for lead paint work.
How to Start a Painting Business
Licensing, insurance, compliance, and everything to launch legally.
Interior Painting Cost Calculator
Estimate costs per room including lead-safe prep for pre-1978 homes.