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Each year, hundreds of Vermont kids get lead poisoning
and 75% of them live in rental homes. That's because
the vast majority of Vermont's rental properties were
built before 1978, the year lead paint was banned in
the U.S. As a result, most rental properties in Vermont
likely contain lead paint.
Vermont law requires that landlords perform specific
Essential Maintenance Practices (EMPs) to minimize the
risk of lead exposure. If you suspect your landlord
is not meeting these requirements, there are several
steps you can take.
- Send a letter alerting your landlord to the risk
and his/her obligations under the law (a
form letter is available at Vermont Tenants Inc.)
- Contact the Vermont
Department of Health. With a simple written request,
the Department will send your landlord a letter about
doing the EMPs.
- Have your children screened for lead. For more information
on lead screening, contact the Vermont
Department of Health.
- For your own safety, follow the cleaning procedures
outlined above on a regular basis.
- If your child is severely poisoned, consult a lawyer
regarding legal action.
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