In the state of Rhode Island, residential property owners will face fines for not notifying tenants about potential lead paint hazards.

Private Reserve Properties faces fines of $421,900 for repeatedly violating the Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act and the federal Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Rule pertaining to residential properties. The purpose of these regulations is to make sure that tenants have sufficient information about the health hazards of lead paint in housing to make an educated decision about the safety of their family.

Lead paint exposure is a serious health concern. Infants and children are especially at risk to the toxicity of lead, which can result in lowered intelligence, learning disabilities, hearing impairments, behavior problems, and attention deficit. Lead exposure in adults can result in difficulties with pregnancy, high blood pressure, disorders or the nervous system, and muscle and joint pain.

The complaint, which was brought on by the Environmental Protection Agency, states the company failed to inform prospective tenants, including families with young children, about the health hazards connected with lead paint. The complaint details 61 violations for 16 rental leases administered from 2009 to 2011.

The company owns 130 rental units in areas that have poverty rates higher than average.

WasteCare Wants You to Remember: Residential property owners with older buildings containing lead paint have two choices. Either to re-mediate the toxic paint through proper hazardous waste disposal practices or comply with federal regulations about disclosure of the toxic substance to prospective tenants. Failure to do will land you in hot water with authorities!