Renter's Checklist

Is My Rental Property in Compliance with the Maryland Laws

Notice of Tenant's Rights
Protect Your Family
Protect Your Family (Spanish)

The following is a checklist to use when looking for a house or an apartment to rent. This checklist will help you identify possible lead hazards in a property before you move in, allowing you to make an informed decision as to rent the property or not. More importantly this checklist can help ensure you that your child will not be lead poisoned in the property if you take the proper precautions.

Questions to Ask the Property Owner

1. Was the property built before 1950? Before 1978?
2. If it was built before 1950, it is required by law that the property be registered with the Maryland Department of the Environment. Is it Registered? You can check this by calling the Maryland Department of the Environment at (410) 631-4199 or the Coalition at (410) 534-6447
3. Has a child ever been poisoned in the property before? You can check with the Coalition at (410) 534-6447

Things To Look For When You Are Shown The Property

• Check the exterior of structure and front porch (if any). Is there chipping paint and rotting wood?
• Pay close attention to windows. Is there flaking, chipping or peeling paint; are window panes cracked? Check for areas where paint is deteriorated.
• Look closely at windows and sills. Is there is chipping paint and/or a build up of dust or paint chips in the window well?
• Do the doors rub against door frame or floor? Is there chipping paint on the door and/or frame? Does the door bang against wall or molding?
• Is there any chipping, peeling or flaking paint on any of the walls?
  (Examine walls for cracks or defects that may cause flaking, chipping, or peeling after you move in.)
• Check ceilings for cracks, water stains, and other imperfections that may cause chipping, peeling, and flaking paint. Do you see any?
• If the stairs are painted, check for chipping on stairs, railings and banisters. If there is no chipping on the steps, ask if a rubber runner can be placed on them to protect them from chipping.
• If floors are painted, check for chipping and peeling paint.