Lead paint

[Kevin Brewer]

Hello Bigger Pockets!!!!!  I am a newbie and only have 1 rental property at the current time. I bought the property as a residence for my daughter when she was a student at The University of Oklahoma.  Since she graduated 2 years ago and the property is over 200 miles from where I live, I want to sell the property and reinvest the equity in starting my business here in North Texas.  My question is that homes built prior to 1978 probably have a lead based paint.  As a landlord, what is my responsibility regarding a property that I own containing a lead based paint.  Is there a sealer?  Is painting over the lead based paint sufficient?  I certainly would not want a nightmare with the first property that I buy in my local area and would absolutely not want to injure a child because of my negligence.  Any responses would be very educational for me.  Thanks everyone.

Kevin

[Eric Black]

Hi Kevin,

What is the condition of the paint? Is it peeling or coming off the walls in any way? You'll have to check your local laws but in most states the you need to provide your tenants with an notice stating that there may be lead based paint and you have to state whether you are aware of any or if there is just the possibility due to the age of the home. If the paint is in good condition then there's not much risk of contamination and you don't usually have to do anything. Yes, you can paint over it but you still have to provide the notice. If the paint is peeling/cracking, etc then typically you are required to get it remedied.

Again, you'll need to check your local laws to make sure you are in compliance.

Best of luck!

Eric