Lead Paint Repair & Risk Reduction Guide for Baltimore Property Owners

Serving Baltimore City & Baltimore County

Need a Lead Paint Inspection or Help with Risk Reduction Practices? Call 443-839-3565.

Do I Really Have to Do All This Lead Stuff?

If your rental home was built before 1978, it likely contains lead-based paint. Once notified, Maryland law requires you to make sure any lead hazards are fixed — before anyone moves in.

Think of it like a house fire. You wouldn’t send someone inside without putting the fire out first. The same is true for lead hazards. You must stabilize the paint, clean the dust, and pass inspection first.

What Is a Risk Reduction Certificate?

The Maryland Risk Reduction Certificate proves that a pre-1978 property has been made safe. To get one, you must:

  • Repair all peeling or chipping paint using lead-safe work practices
  • Hire a licensed inspector to perform a dust wipe test
  • Pass a certified lab analysis for clearance

Compliance Checklist for Baltimore Owners

  • ☐ Confirm the home was built before 1978
  • ☐ Hire a Maryland-certified lead inspector
  • ☐ Repair peeling paint properly using EPA and MDE standards
  • ☐ Use approved lead-safe practices (dust containment, HEPA cleaning, etc.)
  • ☐ Pass the final dust wipe clearance test
  • ☐ Give tenants the required paperwork:
    • Lead Poisoning Prevention Pamphlet
    • Notice of Tenants’ Rights
    • Risk Reduction Certificate
  • ☐ Keep all compliance records for 5 years

Who Is Responsible?

Property Owners: You must fix lead hazards before anyone moves in. That includes hiring certified inspectors and following proper repair steps.

Contractors: They must follow EPA RRP rules and Maryland state law when working with lead paint.

Mistakes can result in fines, stop work orders, and legal enforcement from the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE).

Need to Check the Rules?

Always verify your steps with the official agency:

Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE)
Lead Poisoning Prevention Program
Phone: 410-537-3825
Website: mde.maryland.gov

Note: If MDE rules change or differ, their instructions override this guide.

Need Help with Lead Paint Compliance?

#00 Lead Inspections & Abatements LLC is your local lead compliance partner. We help landlords and property managers across Baltimore pass inspections and stay compliant — fast and legally.

Call 443-839-3565 to schedule an inspection or get help with Risk Reduction Practices.