Federal law requires all sellers with homes built prior to 1978 to complete a lead-based paint disclosure and provide a copy for the buyer to acknowledge and sign. A lead-based paint educational booklet should additionally be provided by your agent or available with any lead-based paint disclosure presented. Lead is a highly toxic metal that was used for many years in products found in and around our homes. The use of lead-based paint was ultimately abolished. Homes built in 1978 or later should have no issues, but homes built earlier, especially those built near the turn of the 20th century as well as homes that have never been renovated, will pose the greatest potential risks.
Lead may cause a range of health effects, from behavioral problems and learning disabilities, to seizures and death. Children 6 years old and under are most at risk because their bodies are growing quickly.
While there are a great number of homes with the potential for lead paint concerns, many will have been painted and repainted over the years or completely renovated with new windows, doors, wall board and moldings which greatly reduces or eliminates the possible hazard. If in doubt, have the paint tested and evaluated either at a local laboratory, or with one of the home test kits available at your local hardware store. For additional information on the hazards of lead-based paint, download the official Lead-Based Paint Brochure here.
For more information to help your in your next purchase, check out our free report called “Seven Insider Tips For Home Buyers”.