Lead-Based Paint Disclosure: What Texas Sellers Need to Know

If your home was built before 1978, federal law requires you to give buyers a lead-based paint disclosure before they're bound by a contract. Here's what that means and what you'll need.

Why 1978?

The federal government banned lead-based paint for homes in 1978. Lead can be harmful, especially to young children and during pregnancy, so buyers of older homes get information before they buy.

What sellers must do

• Disclose any lead-based paint or lead-based paint hazards you know about in the home
• Share any records or reports you have, like a past lead inspection
• Give buyers the EPA pamphlet Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home
• Give buyers time to test: buyers generally get up to 10 days to have the home inspected for lead, unless they choose to waive it
• Sign the disclosure before the buyer is bound by the contract

The form we use in Texas

In Texas, the disclosure is a Texas Real Estate Commission addendum: the Addendum for Seller's Disclosure of Information on Lead-Based Paint and Lead-Based Paint Hazards as Required by Federal Law. You check what you know, list any reports, and you, the buyer and the agents sign it.

What if you don't know?

Many sellers of older homes simply don't know whether lead paint is present. That's fine. You check that you have no knowledge and no reports. You aren't required to test the home before selling.

Keep a copy

Sellers and agents should keep a copy of the signed disclosure for at least three years after the sale.

Selling an older home? Call or text me at (512) 629-9050, and I'll make sure your disclosures are done right. You can learn more at epa.gov/lead.

Trina Heinmiller
Team Lead | Southern Luxe Group | eXp Realty

Step 6 of 10: Complete your disclosures
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This page is general information, not legal advice.