Landlord Compliance Guide
Navigate Maryland Lead Requirements & Protect Your Tenants
Why This Matters
If you own rental properties built before 1978, Maryland law requires lead inspections and risk reduction before leasing or renewing leases. Non-compliance can result in fines, legal action, and lease complications.
We help landlords understand and meet these requirements affordably while protecting tenants.
Your Legal Obligations
1. Get a Certified Inspection
Before leasing or renewing a lease, hire an MDE-certified inspector (like us) to identify lead hazards.
2. Develop a Risk Reduction Plan
If lead is found, create a plan to reduce hazards. This doesn't always mean expensive abatement.
3. Implement Risk Reduction
Execute the plan using certified contractors. Common measures are affordable and effective.
4. Document Everything
Keep all inspection reports, risk reduction documentation, and work completion certificates.
5. Notify Tenants
Inform tenants of lead hazards and any risk reduction work performed. Use required disclosure forms.
6. Maintain Records
Keep documentation for at least 10 years or the duration of the lease, whichever is longer.
Affordable Risk Reduction Examples
You don't need expensive abatement. Maryland law allows many affordable risk reduction practices:
Common Measures
- Paint Encapsulation: Seal lead paint with special coatings ($500–$2,000)
- Paint Stabilization: Fix peeling paint and seal it ($300–$1,500)
- Dust Control: Professional cleaning and sealing ($200–$800)
- Window Work: Enclosure or replacement (varies)
- Door Sealing: Seal gaps around doors ($100–$500)
Full Abatement (if needed)
- Lead Removal: Professional removal and disposal ($2,000–$10,000+)
- When it's necessary: Severe deterioration, high dust levels, or specific situations
- Our recommendation: Get an inspection first. Often risk reduction is sufficient.
Timeline for Compliance
Before Lease/Renewal
Inspection Required
Get certified inspection before offering lease
If Lead Found
30 Days (typically)
Complete risk reduction work
Before Tenancy
Documentation Complete
All work finished, reports ready for tenant
⚠️ Action Required: Don't Miss Deadlines
Timing is critical. Plan ahead of lease periods to ensure compliance. Starting early gives you flexibility and avoids last-minute complications.
How We Help Landlords
Certified Inspections
Our MDE-certified inspectors identify exactly where lead exists, giving you a clear action plan.
Clear Documentation
We provide comprehensive reports perfect for tenant notifications and compliance records.
Affordable Solutions
We focus on cost-effective risk reduction, not unnecessary expensive abatement.
Risk Reduction Work
As certified contractors, we can implement risk reduction measures or connect you with trusted partners.
Fast Turnaround
Same-week appointments. We work around your schedule to meet lease deadlines.
Compliance Support
We answer questions and guide you through the entire process. Compliance made simple.
Tenant Notification Requirements
Maryland law requires specific tenant notifications:
What You Must Tell Tenants
- Whether lead hazards were found in the inspection
- Where lead hazards exist (specific rooms/areas)
- What risk reduction measures will be taken
- When work will be completed
- Health risks associated with lead exposure
- Tenant rights regarding the property
FAQ for Landlords
How often do I need inspections?
One certified inspection is valid for 10 years if no changes are made to the property. However, if major renovations occur, a new inspection is recommended before a new lease.
What if I just painted over the lead paint?
Simply painting over lead paint is not sufficient. Maryland law requires inspection and documented risk reduction. Paint-over doesn't meet compliance requirements and can result in fines.
Can I require tenants to pay for inspections?
No. As the landlord/owner, you are responsible for lead compliance. Inspection and risk reduction costs are your legal obligation. You cannot charge tenants for compliance.
What if risk reduction hasn't been completed before a tenant moves in?
This violates Maryland law. Risk reduction must be completed BEFORE a lease begins. If incomplete, the lease cannot legally start, and you face potential fines.
Can I dispute lead findings?
You can request a second inspection from another certified inspector if you believe results are inaccurate. However, if lead is confirmed, compliance is required.
What are the penalties for non-compliance?
Penalties include:
- Fines up to $5,000 per violation per day
- Legal action by affected tenants
- Lease rescission rights for tenants
- Health-related liability claims
Compliance is essential and far less expensive than penalties.
Ensure Your Rental Properties Are Compliant
Let us handle the inspection and guide you through risk reduction.
Schedule Landlord Inspection📞 443-839-3565 | Serving Maryland landlords since 2012