Starting in1996, rental properties in Maryland had to be registered with the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) and in compliance with lead risk reduction or lead free standard. Lots of landlords either were unaware of these requirements or just didn't worry about it.

Effective February 24, 2006, all rental properties built prior to 1950 MUST be in compliance or owners may face fines of $250 per day. If you can't get your property certified by the February 24th deadline, you may contact MDE to enter into a settlement agreement. Visit MDE's website for more information.

In addition to having conducted lead hazard risk reduction treatments, pre-1950 rental property owners must annually register their unit(s) with MDE, perform risk reduction work each time there is a change in tenants and provide tenants with information on the lead status of their unit. For more information on Maryland's Lead Poisoning Prevention Program or the Feb. 24 deadline, call the Lead Poisoning Prevention Program at (410)537-3942.

Summary of Owners Rights and Responsibilities. It explains a lot about the benefits of this program.

(c) 2006 Susan Pruden