EPA New England will follow up on tips and complaints from the public regarding violations of laws that require people to be informed of potential Lead-Based Paint hazards when they buy, rent, or hire contractors to renovate a home or child-occupied facility. Exposure to lead paint is a serious health concern, especially for young children.

To report a violation of federal Lead-Based Paint rules, follow these easy steps:

Residential Property Renovation Requirements - Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule (RRP Rule) - Firms and renovators that are paid to perform renovation, repair, and painting projects that disturb lead-based paint in homes or child-occupied facilities (such as day care centers and schools) built before 1978 must follow the requirements in the RRP Rule. To report firms and renovators that are not following lead-safe work practices, did not notify property owners or occupants about potential lead-based paint hazards, or are not Lead-Safe Certified Firms and/or Lead-Safe Renovators, you may:

• Complete this electronic tip/complaint form
• Contact our Tip & Complaint Line 617-918-TIPS [8477]

Disclosure Rule - Home sellers and landlords of residential property built before 1978 must provide certain important information about lead paint before a prospective buyer or tenant is obligated under a contract to purchase or rent the property. To report a property owner/property manager who did not notify prospective purchasers or tenants of residential property about potential lead-based paint hazards, you may:

• Complete this electronic tip/complaint form
• Contact our Tip & Complaint Line 617-918-TIPS [8477]

For more information about Lead:

• Massachusetts Department of Labor Standards – Lead Program Exit
• Rhode Island Department of Health – Lead Program Exit
• Lead in Paint, Dust, and Soil

All questions, tips or complaints about lead in drinking water should be directed to the Safe Drinking Water Hotline.