HB 452

Abstract

This Act requires that all rental units constructed before January 1, 1978, are certified as lead free or lead safe by a specific deadline. Lead inspectors must be approved by the State to conduct inspections and if necessary, lead abatement and remediation. A certificate exemption may be issued for no more than 6 months. If the rental unit is uninhabitable, the landlord must provide alternative housing while the unit undergoes lead abatement or remediation. Recertification for lead safe units must occur prior to commencement of any rental agreement more than 4 years after the date the unit was last certified. Units must be recertified as lead free or lead safe if a lead-based paint hazard is discovered in the rental unit or if individuals residing in the unit develop elevated lead blood levels. Beginning July 1, 2026, every rental until constructed prior to January 1, 1978, shall include a disclosure as to whether the rental unit has been certified as lead safe or lead free. To help eligible landlords obtain lead certification or remediate their units, this Act creates a Lead-based Paint Hazard Control Grant and Loan Program. Preference for grants shall be given to families with young children, pregnant individuals, or tenants regularly visited by children under 6 years old. This Act also establishes a Lead-Based Paint Remediation Certification Committee to study the available workforce and available public funding to support the inspection and remediation efforts required by this Act along with the feasibility of meeting deadlines established under this Act. This Act also does the following: (1) Prohibits landlords from discriminating against individuals because they make a complaint or assist in an investigation or proceeding relating to a lead-based paint hazard in a rental unit or premises. (2) Prohibits landlords from discriminating against individuals residing in a unit who have elevated blood lead levels or children or pregnant individuals who may be affected by lead-based paint hazards. (3) Requires landlords to show proof that their unit is certified as lead free or lead safe in accordance with this Act prior to filing a complaint for possession with JP Court. (4) Requires that contractors performing lead-based paint abatement or remediation under the Delaware State Lead-Based Paint Program provide for the safety of workers performing lead-based paint remediation work, including free blood testing for workers at least every 3 months.