In Maryland, what is the requirement for disclosing known lead paint hazards?

The correct requirement in Maryland is that landlords must disclose any known lead paint hazards to tenants before leasing. This is aligned with federal regulations as well, particularly the Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act, which mandates that landlords inform potential tenants about any known lead paint hazards in properties built before 1978. This requirement is crucial for protecting tenant health, especially for young children and pregnant women, who are particularly vulnerable to lead exposure.

The disclosure process ensures that tenants have the necessary information to make informed decisions about their living situation, and it is a proactive approach to preventing lead poisoning. By requiring landlords to disclose known hazards, the law emphasizes accountability and public health considerations.

The other options do not reflect the legal obligations of landlords in Maryland. Not disclosing hazards would contradict the protective measures intended by the law, and merely covering hazards is not sufficient without disclosure. Additionally, placing the onus on the tenant to inquire about lead paint hazards undermines the purpose of the law: to keep potential tenants informed from the outset.