Baring Building Safety: Lead Paint Rules (2026)

Lead-based paint in King County is regulated primarily by federal law because no specific county ordinance exists beyond generic hazardous-materials rules. The EPA Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule (40 CFR 745 Subpart E) applies to any residential property built before 1978 and to child-occupied facilities. Contractors performing renovation, repair, or painting work that disturbs more than 6 square feet of interior painted surface per room or more than 20 square feet of exterior painted surface must be certified by the EPA as a Lead-Safe Certified Firm and must use lead-safe work practices including containment, HEPA vacuuming, and thorough cleanup. The federal Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act requires sellers and landlords of pre-1978 housing to provide the EPA pamphlet Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home, disclose known lead paint or lead hazards, and allow buyers a 10-day inspection opportunity. Washington law (RCW 70A.340) and WAC 365-230 regulate lead-based paint activities and certification of abatement contractors. The Washington Department of Commerce administers lead-based paint certification for contractors doing abatement work. Seattle-King County Public Health provides information and investigation of childhood lead poisoning cases. Children under 6 with elevated blood lead levels are reported to public health, which can investigate the source and require remediation. Pre-1978 rental properties in Washington have specific landlord duties. Violations are pursued through EPA, state health departments, and private civil actions.