Prior to what year must residential property owners disclose lead paint risks?

The correct answer is 1978 because this year marks the implementation of the federal Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act. Under this law, sellers and landlords of residential properties built before 1978 are required to disclose any known lead-based paint hazards to potential buyers or tenants. This legislation was enacted due to health concerns associated with lead paint, especially for young children and pregnant women, and it established guidelines and requirements for managing lead paint risks in residential homes.

Sellers must provide a lead hazard information pamphlet to buyers and include a lead disclosure statement in the sales contract. The significance of 1978 is that it serves as the cutoff for this requirement, meaning that properties built in that year or later are not subject to the same disclosure requirements regarding lead paint. Understanding this pivotal year is crucial for real estate professionals and property owners to ensure compliance with federal regulations and to protect the health and safety of residents.