What must a real estate agent do if the property was constructed before the lead-based paint disclosure law was enacted?

In California, any property constructed before 1978, when the lead-based paint disclosure law was enacted, requires a real estate agent to provide the lead paint disclosure form to potential buyers or renters. This requirement is crucial because lead-based paint can pose serious health risks, especially to young children and pregnant women.

By supplying the lead paint disclosure form, the agent is ensuring that buyers are informed about the possibility of lead-based paint in the home and the associated risks. The disclosure allows buyers to make educated decisions regarding their purchase and to take appropriate precautions if they choose to proceed with a property that potentially has lead-based paint.

Other options, such as ignoring lead disclosure requirements, conducting inspections, or merely obtaining a buyer's signature, do not fulfill the legal obligation. Ignoring disclosures can lead to significant liability for the agent, while conducting inspections, although a good practice for ensuring safety, is not mandatory under the disclosure law. Obtaining a signature on the contract without providing this crucial information would fail to meet legal obligations regarding safety and informed consent in real estate transactions.