Contra Costa County, CA Building Safety: Lead Paint (2026)
Key Facts
- Trigger
- Pre-1978 construction
- Required form
- EPA disclosure + pamphlet
- Timing
- Before lease signing
- Federal penalty
- Up to $10,000/unit
- Enforcement
- CC Health Services
Summary
Federal Title X and California Health & Safety Code require lead paint disclosure for pre-1978 rental units in unincorporated Contra Costa County. Landlords must provide EPA pamphlet and disclosure form before lease signing.
Provide a "Lead Warning Statement" to buyers or renters explaining, among other things, that lead from paint can pose health hazards if not managed properly. This can be an attachment to or as language inserted into the contract or lease. This should be in the same language as the rest of the contract. It should include confirmation that the seller or landlord has complied with all requirements under the Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Rule. They can use EPA's sample disclosure forms for this purpose. Sample Seller’s Disclosure of Information in English (PDF) and in Spanish (PDF) . Sample Lessor's Disclosure of Information in English (PDF) and in Spanish (PDF) .
Full Breakdown
Unincorporated Contra Costa County follows federal Title X (Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act of 1992) and California Health & Safety Code Sections 17920.10 and 105250 et seq. for lead paint disclosure obligations. Any rental dwelling built before 1978 requires landlords to provide tenants with the EPA-approved pamphlet 'Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home,' a Lead Warning Statement, and disclosure of any known lead-based paint or hazards before the tenant becomes contractually obligated. The Contra Costa Health Services Lead Poisoning Prevention Project enforces abatement orders for lead hazards identified through child blood-lead screening. Deteriorated paint in pre-1978 units is presumed to be lead-containing unless testing proves otherwise. Violations carry penalties up to $10,000 per unit under federal law plus state nuisance abatement remedies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this apply to post-1978 homes?
What if I don't know whether lead paint exists?
Who investigates suspected lead hazards?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Contra Costa County
California rules heatmap·Compare Contra Costa County to another location·View the California building safety overview
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