Seattle, WA Building Safety: Lead Paint (2026)

Seattle landlords and property sellers must comply with the federal Lead Disclosure Rule (24 CFR Part 35 and 40 CFR Part 745) for all residential properties built before 1978. Sellers and landlords must disclose any known lead-based paint or lead-based paint hazards, provide buyers/tenants with the EPA pamphlet 'Protect Your Family From Lead In Your Home,' and include a Lead Warning Statement in lease agreements or sales contracts. Under Washington state law (RCW 70A.420), the Department of Commerce administers a lead-based paint activities program covering inspection, risk assessment, and abatement. All renovation, repair, and painting (RRP) work that disturbs more than 6 square feet of lead-based paint in interior rooms or 20 square feet on exteriors in pre-1978 housing must be performed by EPA-certified lead-safe firms using lead-safe work practices. Seattle's Department of Construction and Inspections (SDCI) enforces building standards that incorporate these requirements. Contractors performing lead-related work must maintain certification and follow containment, cleanup, and disposal procedures. Signed disclosure forms must be retained for at least 3 years.