What typically triggers a lead-based paint disclosure in real estate transactions?

The requirement for a lead-based paint disclosure in real estate transactions is primarily triggered by the year a property was built. The federal law mandates that homes constructed before 1978 must provide a lead-based paint disclosure to potential buyers or tenants. This is due to the known health risks associated with lead exposure, particularly in homes where lead-based paint is likely still present.

Properties built after 1978 are generally exempt from this disclosure requirement because they are not expected to contain lead-based paint. The year of construction serves as a clear demarcation point for potential lead hazards, which is why it is the correct and most relevant choice in this context. This focus on the year built is rooted in public health initiatives aimed at protecting individuals, especially children, from the dangers of lead poisoning.