Compliance & Regulations
Understanding Maryland Lead Safety Laws & EPA Requirements
Why Compliance Matters
Maryland has strict lead safety regulations designed to protect families and tenants. Whether you're a homeowner, landlord, or property manager, understanding these laws is essential—and non-compliance can result in significant fines.
At 00 Lead Inspections & Abatements LLC, we help you understand and meet these requirements affordably.
Maryland Lead Safety Law
Key Requirement: Risk Reduction
Maryland law requires that properties built before 1978 must have risk reduction practices in place before a lease can be executed or renewed, or before a property can be sold.
This is NOT the same as full lead abatement. Risk reduction is a set of affordable, lead-safe practices.
For Landlords & Rental Properties
- Visual Inspection Required: Before leasing or renewing a lease, landlords must have a visual inspection by an MDE-certified inspector
- Risk Reduction Plan: If lead paint is found, a risk reduction plan must be implemented
- Tenant Notification: Tenants must be notified of lead hazards and any risk reduction work
- Certified Contractor: Risk reduction work must be completed by a certified lead contractor (like us)
- Documentation: All inspection reports and work must be documented and retained
For Homeowners & Property Sales
- Buyer Notification: Sellers must disclose known lead hazards before closing
- Pre-Sale Inspection: Many buyers require a lead inspection before purchase
- Risk Reduction: Properties may need risk reduction before closing
- Documentation: All inspection reports should be provided to buyers
- Federal Timing Rule: Buyers have 10 days to conduct lead inspections and inspections
EPA Lead Regulations
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enforces federal lead standards. Key regulations include:
EPA RRP Rule (2010)
Renovation, Repair, and Painting Rule
Any renovation or repair work in pre-1978 homes must use lead-safe work practices. This includes:
- Certified lead-safe contractors
- Proper containment and cleaning
- Worker certification and training
- Specific work practices
- Documentation requirements
EPA Disclosure Rule (1996)
Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Rule
Sellers and landlords must:
- Disclose known lead hazards
- Provide EPA pamphlet "Protect Your Family"
- Allow buyer 10-day inspection period
- Retain disclosure documentation
- Comply with state-specific requirements
Our Certification & Credentials
MDE Certified Inspector
Certificate #13364
Authorized by the Maryland Department of Environment to perform certified lead-based paint inspections.
Lead Demolition Contractor
Certificate #14851
Certified to perform lead risk reduction and demolition work in compliance with MDE and EPA standards.
EPA Compliance
All work meets EPA RRP Rule requirements and EPA Disclosure Rule standards.
Continuing Education
We maintain current certifications and stay updated on all regulatory changes.
Official Regulatory Resources
For detailed information on lead regulations, please visit these official resources:
Maryland-Specific Resources
Maryland Department of Environment (MDE)
Lead Poisoning Prevention Program
Comprehensive information on Maryland lead laws, risk reduction requirements, and compliance.
MDE Risk Reduction Certification
Accreditation & Certification
Information about inspector and contractor certifications in Maryland.
Baltimore City Lead Regulations
City-Specific Requirements
Additional lead requirements specific to Baltimore City properties.
Federal Resources
EPA Lead Information
Federal Lead Standards & Guidance
Comprehensive EPA resources on lead regulations and protection.
EPA RRP Rule Details
Renovation, Repair & Painting Requirements
Detailed requirements for renovations in pre-1978 homes.
EPA Disclosure Rule
Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Requirements
Requirements for sellers and landlords to disclose lead hazards.
CDC Lead Information
Health Information & Guidelines
Health effects and prevention guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control.
Common Compliance Questions
Do I need a lead inspection?
If your property was built before 1978, you should have a lead inspection if you're:
- Selling your home
- Leasing to tenants
- Planning renovations
- Concerned about family health
We recommend inspections for all pre-1978 properties.
What's the difference between inspection and risk reduction?
Inspection: Identifies where lead exists (required by law for rental properties)
Risk Reduction: Actions taken to reduce lead exposure (also required by law before leasing/selling)
Both are required for compliance in Maryland.
What are valid risk reduction practices?
Valid risk reduction includes:
- Paint stabilization (sealing peeling paint)
- Window replacement or enclosure
- Door frame sealing
- Surface cleaning/dust control
- Professional abatement (if needed)
We'll help you choose the most affordable option for your situation.
How long is a lead inspection valid?
In Maryland, a lead inspection is typically valid for:
- Rental properties: 10 years (if no changes made)
- Sale transactions: Only for that transaction (typically valid for negotiation period)
Check with your local authority for specific requirements.
What happens if I don't comply?
Non-compliance can result in:
- Fines up to $5,000 per violation per day
- Legal action by tenants or buyers
- Property seizure in extreme cases
- Lease or sale complications
It's important to stay compliant. We can help!
How much does risk reduction cost?
Risk reduction costs vary based on your property and needs:
- Inspection: $200–$750
- Risk Reduction Plan: $0–$250
- Remediation work: Varies (we provide estimates)
Many affordable options exist. We'll help you find the best solution for your budget.
Ensure Your Property Is Compliant
Let us help you meet all Maryland lead safety requirements.
Schedule Compliance Inspection📞 443-839-3565 | We help landlords and homeowners stay compliant