Lead disclosure when selling a pre-1978 home
Selling a home built before 1978 comes with a few federal lead steps. They are meant to make sure buyers know what the seller knows, and have a chance to check for themselves.
The seller gives the buyer the EPA pamphlet, discloses any known lead-based paint or hazards and shares available records, and includes the Lead Warning Statement in the contract or an attachment. The buyer gets a 10-day period, unless changed in writing, to do a lead inspection or risk assessment. A buyer may waive it.
If the buyer wants an inspection, plan for it in the timeline. If the result shows hazards, the parties usually work out what happens next with their agents. Keep signed copies of the disclosures for three years after the sale.
We are a referral service. We refer you to a contractor who holds an active California contractor license, and we ask you to verify it at cslb.ca.gov. We do not give legal advice.
Quick list
- Give the EPA pamphlet.
- Disclose known lead and share records.
- Include the Lead Warning Statement.
- Allow the 10-day inspection period unless changed in writing.
- Keep signed copies for three years.