Published 2026-10-23
If the home you want to buy was built before 1978, federal rules say the seller must give you the EPA lead pamphlet, tell you about any known lead-based paint or hazards, share records they have, and include a Lead Warning Statement in the contract.
You also get a chance, usually 10 days unless the parties agree otherwise in writing, to do a lead paint inspection or risk assessment. You can waive it. Whether to use it is your call and a good topic for your agent or attorney.
Think about what you plan to do with the house. If you intend to sand, remodel or replace windows, knowing where lead paint is can change how you plan the work. If you plan to live in the home as is, a risk assessment can show whether any paint is deteriorating.
None of this tells you the house is bad. Lead paint is common in older housing, and many homes with lead paint are lived in safely. The point is to know what you have.
We are a referral service and do not give legal advice. If you want an inspection or later repair work, we refer you to a contractor with an active California contractor license; verify it at cslb.ca.gov.
Quick list
- Check the build year.
- Read the seller disclosures.
- Decide whether to use the inspection period.
- Plan renovation around what you learn.
- Verify any contractor license.